Jessie L. Martin, Jr.

Jessie L. Martin, Jr.

June 27, 1953 - February 12, 2025

Jessie L. Martin, Jr., born in Montgomery, AL, lived in Union Springs, AL until his parents relocated to Cleveland, OH when he was 2 years old. Jessie passed away peacefully at his home on February 12, 2025. He was the beloved son of Louise (Allums) Martin and Jessie Martin, Sr., both of whom preceded him in death.

On May 27, 1978, Jessie married his soulmate, Maralana (James) Martin, and together they shared 47 wonderful years of marriage. He graduated from Kent State University in 1978 with a degree in Finance and spent several decades working in the finance industry before pursuing his passion for helping others. In 1994, he earned his LPN and worked as a dedicated nurse until shortly before his passing.

Jessie was also a track and field coach for the Youngstown Striders AAU summer track club and North Jr. High School, where he inspired many young athletes. He had a love for traveling and enjoyed going on cruises.  He looked forward to every opportunity to create cherished memories with family and friends.

In his later years, Jessie came to God and became a devoted member of Genesis the New Beginning Ministries, where he loved his church family deeply. He cherished every moment spent with his family and friends, always making them feel special and loved. Whether it was through his warm embraces, hearty laughter, or the countless memories he created, Jessie's love for his family and friends was boundless and unwavering. Known for his gift of gab, Jessie never met a stranger and he formed connections wherever he went, enriching the lives of all who crossed his path.

Jessie leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Maralana Martin; five children: Christopher Martin, Adam (Barbara) Martin, and Brandon Martin, all of Youngstown, OH; Kendra (Yeshon) Avery of Dayton, OH; and Kerri (Otto II) Rosendary of Maryland; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; many cousins; two very close friends that he cherished as brothers, Robert Lloyd and Leon Adams: and a host of other relatives and friends. He was also preceded in death by one grandson.

Jessie's life was marked by his dedication to his family, his passion for helping others, and his love for the Cleveland Browns. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and cherished memories that will forever be etched in our hearts.

Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 am, Friday, February 21, 2025 at Genesis The New Beginning, 903 Franklin Ave, Youngstown, Ohio.

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