Thomas Jackson "Tommy" Martin

Thomas J. (Tommy) Martin, 86, of Salem, Virginia passed away peacefully at home on April 12th surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by his son Terry Martin, his parents Grace Gunter and George Martin, and his brother Donald Martin. He was born in Allisonia, Virginia and graduated from Dublin High School. He worked as a dispatcher for the Virginia State Police at their Salem headquarters and also worked at the Commissioner of Revenues Office as the Deputy Commissioner in Salem, Virginia. Later, he worked as a State Farm Insurance agent and manager for 42 years. He loved helping others throughout his career and retired in 2001. As a young man, Tommy was active in the Salem Jaycees, where he served as president, regional vice president, and national director. After joining Central United Methodist Church in the early 1950s, Tommy was an active member of its congregation. At the age of 26, he was elected as chairman of the board, a role which he fulfilled for most of his life. Also, he faithfully served his church as chairman of the finance committee and was president of his Sunday school class for numerous years. As co-chairman of the building committee, he worked diligently to see that the social hall was built. Tommy loved being an active member in his community and dedicated his life to his family and faith. Tommy is survived by his wife Anna Smith Martin, two sons, Billy Martin (Lynette) and Steve Martin (Gail) and one daughter, Tommie Ann Perdue; grandchildren Nikki Dandridge (Wayles), Kim Shelton (Will), Meredith Rose (Nick), Ben Martin (Lindsey), Dana Paiment (Bryan), and Zach Zuro (Hannah); great-grandchildren, Anna and Harrison Dandridge, Hayden Martin, Jared and Kayla Lavallee, Sam and Maddie Shelton, and Harper and Carmen Rose; and several nephews, nieces, and cousins. The family would like to express their appreciation to Dr. Malidi, Dr. Buck, and the wonderful staff at Blue Ridge Cancer Center for their exceptional care. Also, the family appreciates the dedication and care from Good Samaritan Hospice and Home Instead caregivers. A Celebration of his life will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Monday, April 22, 2019, at Central United Methodist Church located at 428 South College Avenue, Salem, Virginia. Friends may visit with the family from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. at the church prior to the service, the entombment will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Central United Methodist Church or Good Samaritan Hospice. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.johnmoakey.com. Service Details. Visitation When Monday, April 22nd, 2019 1:00pm - 3:00pm Location Central United Methodist Church Address 428 South College Avenue Salem, Virginia 24153 Service When Monday, April 22nd, 2019 3:30pm Location Central United Methodist Church Address 428 South College Avenue Salem, Virginia 24153