Edward Eugene Martin, of Heber Springs, Arkansas, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, June 26, 2026, peacefully surrounded by family and friends. He spent his final day on earth with those he loved most and was overjoyed by every visit from family and friends.

Edward was born on May 9, 1938, in Rose Bud, Arkansas, to the late Lee Martin and Cora Parish Martin. He grew up with six siblings and cherished the close bonds he shared with his family throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mabel (Blake) Martin married 62 years, parents, Lee and Cora Martin; his sisters, Syble Forbus Burford, Barbara Bailey, Linda Thomas, and Erma Houston; and his brother, James Martin.

He is survived by his brother, Alvin Martin (Trina); his daughters, DaNita Haile (Ernest) of Heber Springs and Melba Clark (Obia) of Mountain View; three grandchildren, Travis Haile (Vicki) of Greenbrier, Tracy Fall (Franklin) of Heber Springs, and Terrie Avey (Devin) of Timbo; and eight great-grandchildren: Reese and Merritt Haile; Harper and Hudson Fall; and Dakota Meeker, Karter, Zayleigh, and Liam Avey, two step great-grandsons Devin and Dawson Clark. As well as numerous relatives.

Edward enjoyed hunting, fishing, and building little rocking chairs, but above all else, he loved his family and friends. He never met a stranger and was known for his kind heart and genuine concern for others. He faithfully called family and friends just to check on them and make sure they were doing well. His greatest joy in life was spending time with the people he loved. He cut leather at the Glove Corp. for 40 years.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Southridge Village Rehabilitation Center for the love, friendship, and compassionate care they provided over the past three years. They also wish to thank Lifetouch Hospice for their exceptional care, kindness, and support during Edward's final days.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at South Crossroads Church in Hopewell, Arkansas, with Brother Van Saunders officiating. Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. prior to the service. Interment will follow at South Crossroads Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Heber Springs Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Edward's honor to the Southridge Village Rehabilitation Center Bingo Fund in Heber Springs, Arkansas. Edward loved a good game of Bingo, and this would be a meaningful way to celebrate his life and bring joy to others.

"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord" — Matthew 25:23