Eugene Martin, Sr., known to many as Gene, of Pinckard, Alabama, passed away on October 27, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 86. He leaves behind a family who will forever cherish the love, laughter, guidance, and memories he shared with them throughout his life.
Born on March 14, 1940, in Iowa, Gene spent much of his life on a farm, where he learned the values of hard work, honesty, and perseverance. He carried those lessons with him throughout his years, approaching life with determination, quiet strength, and a willingness to lend a helping hand. Gene served four years in the United States Army, where he met the love of his life, Betty. Following his military service, he returned to Iowa and worked a variety of jobs before eventually joining Midtown Hardware. Throughout his working years, Gene was known for his dependability, integrity, and straightforward nature.
Gene was a man who found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially fishing, hunting, golfing, and gardening. He also enjoyed working on crosswords and puzzles, watching movies, and spending time with his beloved electric trains. Whether enjoying a favorite hobby or simply sitting and talking with family, Gene understood that life’s greatest treasures were not material things, but the people we love and the moments we share with them.
To his family, Gene was more than a husband, father, and grandfather. He was a familiar voice, a comforting presence, and a steady source of love and guidance. He was a man who did not need a special occasion to make a memory. Sometimes, the best moments were simply sitting together, sharing a conversation, or enjoying a quiet afternoon. His love was often shown through his actions rather than words, and his selfless, caring nature left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
Gene will be remembered for his toughness, sincerity, intelligence, and kind heart. He believed in doing things the right way and took pride in the life he built and the family he loved. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the generations of family who will continue to carry his love with them.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Betty Martin; his sons, Larry Martin (Effie) and Eugene Martin, Jr. (Stacy); his daughter, Ann Gilley (Eugene); and his son, Samuel Cunningham. He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren, his sister, Jenni Wilson, and many other relatives and friends who were blessed to know and love him.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Peal Martin; his daughter, Mary Joann Giles; his brothers, Harry Thomas Martin and Harold Frank Martin; his sister, Martha Marie Hude; and his grandson, Eugene Everett Martin, III.
A celebration of Gene’s life will be held on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel, with Donald Clark officiating. Military honors will follow the service. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
Although Gene’s chair may now be empty, the place he holds in the hearts of those who loved him never will be. His life was a reminder that a meaningful life is built through loving your family, appreciating the little things, and creating memories that make the people you leave behind remember what home feels like.
A life well lived, a man well loved.
