Jerry Edwin Martin of Kuttawa, KY, formerly of Hanson, KY, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 2:30 p.m., surrounded by his wife, daughter, and granddaughter.

He was born on October 3, 1950, to the late Betty J. Lucas Martin and Leonard S. Martin Sr. Jerry was a loving husband, Pop, and Pop-Pop. He was a Kentucky coal miner, with ventures in the restaurant business, real estate, and later working for the State of Kentucky. He worked for two retirements, and he was fortunate enough to retire early and fulfill his dream of moving to the lake. Jerry was a loyal NASCAR fan, a devoted UK fan, and enjoyed watching singing shows because of his love for country music. He was a talented man with many skills, best known for his ability to "Jerry-rig" just about anything. He proudly held on to the spirit of the 1950s with his '57 Chevy. Anyone who met Jerry knew they had found a friend for life. He was full of knowledge and could share stories, in great detail, until his dying day. His faith was strong, listening to services every Sunday morning.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Leonard Martin Jr., Tony Martin, and Freddy Martin Sr.; his sisters, Carolyn Stobaugh, Lisa Cates, and Cheryl Martin; and his nephew, Jason Nelson.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of fifty-six years, Mary Martin; his daughter, Laura Hallum; and his granddaughter, Sierra Knight, who was his pride and joy; his sisters, Becky Nelson and Mary "Mert" Nelson; son-in-law, Eddie Hallum, his step-grandsons; several nieces and nephews; and his faithful dog, Barkley.

The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 23, 2026 in the chapel of Harris Funeral Home in Madisonville, KY with Bro. Carl Nelson officiating. Burial to follow at West Lawn Cemetery in Hanson.

A visitation will be from 11 a.m. until the funeral hour Thursday at the funeral home.

Pallbearers are his nephews, Freddy Martin Jr., Scotty Martin, Stephen Stobaugh, David Stobaugh, and Jarrod Nelson; his cousin, Phillip Lucas. Honorary pallbearers are Hunter Hallum, and his longtime buddy, Terry Francis.