Obituary of Travis Wayne Martin

Travis Wayne Martin, 80 of Altavista, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 13, 2020 at Autumn Care of Altavista. He was born on Tuesday, November 28, 1939 in Bedford County, a son of the late William Lesley Martin and Fleeta Bell Mayhew Martin. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Willie Martin and Vernon Martin, his sister, Bertie Martin Larch and his granddaughter, Tabitha Leigh Martin. He is survived by his wife, Betty Martin; his daughter, Teena Martin Pickeral (Chris); his sons, Brett Allen Martin (friend, Ellen Vickous), Travis Wade Martin (E.J.); step-daughters, Connie Roche (Charlie), Michelle Cameron (Mickey); twelve grandchildren, thirteen great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Arlene Martin Murphy (Wayne) and his brothers, James Martin (Christine), Donald Martin (Wanda). Mr. Martin was born in 1939 in Huddleston, VA where he was raised by his parents, who were ministers in the Church of God of Prophecy. He graduated from Huddleston High School in 1957 and immediately entered the United States Air Force, where he served for six years before being honorably discharged in 1963. He was later employed by The Lane Company in Altavista, where he was employed for 30 years and served as Director of Transportation. Although he was an avid golfer and hunter, Wayne's true passion was music. During the 1970's he served as the lead singer and guitarist for "The Twilights." After he gave his heart to the Lord, he began actively serving in his church. He formed and sang/played in two gospel groups, "The Last Day Singers" and "Daystar." Music was his life and he has now joined the heavenly choir around the throne of God, to sing and play forever, with no end. The family requests in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Huddleston Church of God of Prophecy, Gentle Shepherd Hospice or a charity or your choice. The family will receive friends beginning at 12 noon on Friday, February 21, 2020 at Huddleston Church of God of Prophecy, 1022 Winona Lane, Lynch Station and a funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm with Rev. Wayne Murphy and Rev. Donald Martin officiating. Interment will follow in Huddleston Church of God of Prophecy Cemetery. At other times, the family will accept friends at the home of Chris and Teena Pickeral, Altavista. Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.