George Frank Martin

SHELBY- George Frank Martin, 97, died Thursday, Dec. 21, 2017, surrounded by his family at Wendover Hospice of Shelby.

A native of Rutherford County, he was born to the late Marcus and Mittie Gold Martin.

He was a charter member of Westview Baptist Church.

George Martin, known by many as the Phone Man, was always a gentleman. He loved people well, served others and never passed up an opportunity for a practical joke.

George loved visiting folks, leaving people with a smile or a laugh. He faithfully served his country during World War II in the 45th infantry and finished as staff sergeant. His job was to lay the field wire for communication.

Though his accomplishments are many, he will always be remembered for his elaborate “meteorite” prank that will live on forever.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Kathryn Martin; son, Dennis Martin; daughter-in- law, Susan Martin; sister, Margaret Barnhardt; and brothers, Randolph and Carl Martin.

He is survived by his sons, Roger Martin of Shelby, and Marcus Martin and wife Suzi of Lattimore; grandchildren, Matthew Martin and wife Christie, and Jennifer Love and husband Matt, both of Shelby, Ben Martin and wife Lauren and Katy Martin of California, and Jessica Wilson and husband Andy of Lenoir; great-grandchildren, Stella, Jasmine, Lawson and Jude; daughter-in- law, Diane Martin of Lenoir; special friend, Frankie Patterson; and longtime family friends, Carroll and Glennett Bridges.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 27, at Westview Baptist Church. Dr. Rick Bowling will officiate.

Memorials may be made to Westview Baptist Church, 500 Melody Lane, Shelby, NC 28150 or Hospice at Wendover, 951 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby, NC 28150.

Clay-Barnette Funeral Home of Shelby is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at www.claybarnette.com .