William Theodore Martin, Sr.

William “Bill” Theodore Martin Sr. passed away February 2, 2019 at Haven Hospice in Orange Park, FL. Bill had just celebrated his 95th birthday on January 13. He was born in Atlanta, GA to parents George Franklin Martin and Marguerite Ola Pate.

Bill left school and entered the United States Navy in 1941. He guarded merchant ships during World War II; recruited and trained divers and rose to the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer Master Diver during his 30 year Naval career. His last duty station was in Panama City, FL. He retired there and lived 40 years at Bay Point Golf & Country Club with plenty of time to perfect his golf game. He also continued his diving career by working with University of Florida Scientist in the Sea programs and civic pursuits such as volunteer fire fighter at Bay Point and participation in the local Rotary Club and Shriners.

He married Marita Carle Marine in 1945 and enjoyed 65 years of marriage. After she pre-deceased him in 2010, he lived in Hawaii and in Green Cove Springs, FL at Magnolia Point Golf & Country Club and at Allegro Assisted Living. He is survived by his two sons William T. “Ted” Martin, Jr. (Marguerite) and David W. Martin. His ashes will be interned beside his wife at Punchbowl National Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii.