He was born Feb. 7, 1939, in Rockbridge County, to the late Hayden Ernest Martin and Emma Douglas Martin.

Ernest was also preceded in death by grandson, Victor Clark, three brothers, and four sisters.

Ernest served in the U.S. Army and retired from Burlington Industries.

Surviving are his wife, Gloria Martin; children, Leatrice Martin, Mickey Branch (Stephanie), Rock Martin (Lisa), and Eric Martin (Karen); grandchildren, Antione Martin, Stormie Johnson, and Vincent Branch-Clark; multiple nieces and nephews; and special friends, Georgie Fields, Marylee Huffman, Donnie Shafer, Robin, Jenny, Brandy, Robert, Mary, Marty, Larry, and Patty and husband.

A funeral was conducted Saturday, Feb. 28, at Bolling, Grose & Lotts Funeral Chapel by Pastor Rachel Jones. Burial followed at Rockbridge Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements were handled by Bolling, Grose, & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services. NG