William John "Jack" Martin

William John "Jack" Martin, age 82, of Ridgetop, Tennessee, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, in the early morning hours of June 20, 2026, at his home in Ridgetop. Jack was born on June 6, 1944, in Belfast, Northern Ireland, to John and Agnes Martin. A gifted musician who later answered God's call to ministry, Jack faithfully served churches throughout Northern Ireland before moving to the United States in 1981. Throughout his years of ministry, he touched countless lives through his preaching, pastoral care, writing, and unwavering commitment to sharing the Gospel. On April 10, 1965, Jack married the love of his life, Marureen Swindle, and together they shared 61 years of marriage. He enjoyed music, fellowship with family and friends, serving in the church, and encouraging others in their faith. Jack will be remembered for his larger than life presence, deep love for Christ, his compassionate spirit, his sense of humor, and his dedication to his family and community. Jack is survived by his beloved wife, Maureen Martin; his children, Kim Overby (Ben), Gene Martin, and David Martin (Rachel); his grandchildren, John Thomas Overby (Carla), Alex Overby (Savannah), Hannah Martin, Austin Martin, and Ava Martin; and his great-grandchildren, Merritt Overby, Ellis Overby, Lyla Overby, Essie Overby, and Millie Overby; his brothers, Roy (Margaret) Martin and Paul (Ann) Martin; nieces, Trina Martin and Linda Martin; nephews, Gary Martin, Dean Martin, and Daniel Clarke. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Agnes Martin, his step-mother Helen Martin, his sister Ethel McGuiggan, and son John Henry. A memorial service will be held on June 26th, from 6 PM until 7 PM at the Greeenridge Church of Christ. Berti Rithchie, minister for the Coleraine Church of Christ, Northern Ireland, will deliver the eulogy. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to one of Jack’s great passions–Camp Shamrock Bible Camp, founded by Bertie Ritche and held in Newcastle Northern Ireland. Make Checks payable to Greenridge Church of Christ, and include in the memo, Camp Shamrock–and mail to Greenridge Church of Christ, PO Box 584, Ridgetop, TN 37152 The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to caregivers, hospice staff, medical professionals, friends, and family members for their compassionate care and support. "Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

William John "Jack" Martin

June 6, 1944 - June 20, 2026