Bill Martin

William C Martin (Bill), 67, was called home peacefully in his sleep, Tuesday morning, December 1, 2020. Please take a moment and share a kind thought or memory with Bill’s family at www.andersonbethany.com. Bill was preceded in death by his father, Ted Martin, mother Lois Martin, (stepfather/uncle) William Martin, and his grandson William John Martin. Bill is survived by his wife, Dianna Martin; children: James Martin, Matthew Martin, and Chelsea Martin; grandchildren: Sarah Martin, Hannah Martin, Emily Martin and Emma Martin; great-grandson, Haras Rangel; brothers: Perry Martin, Theo Martin; sister, Pam Martin Etie; as well as his aunt, Anna B Boyer. Bill was born in Roswell, NM, on August 26, 1953, to Ted and Lois Martin. He attended schools in Roswell. He was the baby in his family but grew up to be the biggest of them all at the height of 6’7”. Bill was a very talented athlete, playing little league baseball and then growing into a very accomplished basketball player for the Goddard Rockets, earning an MVP award and being honored as an All-Star. He earned two full scholarships to Western New Mexico University and to Levelland Texas University. He chose Western New Mexico University. Bill married Lana Snell in 1970 and had two sons James and Matthew. After college Bill worked for the Santa Fe Railroad then started working at the Tyrone Copper Mines in the tire shop. In 1975, Bill gave his life fully to Jesus and was an active member of the Silver City Presbyterian Church as a Deacon and Youth Minister. He had many accomplishments. Bill worked and received his private pilot’s license and obtained his real estate license in New Mexico. He made his way back to Roswell and, working at TMC, met his wife Dianna Beatty in 1982. One year later, they moved to Morenci, Arizona, where they were married, and he worked at the copper mine. They were Blessed with his only daughter Chelsea in 1992. Bill loved watching sports, fishing, camping, watching his granddaughter’s sporting events, but in the last couple of years, his most favorite thing was his granddaughter Emma. He was a big man with an even bigger heart. He loved his family selflessly and would do without if he had to, to make sure they had what they needed and was a steadfast friend to many. Bill was always amazed with God’s amazing grace and never-ending love. He will be forever missed as a part of our heart was taken. There will be a Celebration Service for Bill will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, January 16, 2021, at Church on the Move. Bill’s tribute was written in his honor by his family.

Bill Martin

August 26, 1953 - December 1, 2020