Thomas O. Martin

Thomas’ life began on May 10, 1950 in Laurel, Mississippi to the union of J. D. and Ella Mae Martin. He accepted Christ at an early age.

He was a lifelong resident of Joliet. Thomas was educated in the Joliet Public School system. He attended McKinley Park Grade School, Washington Jr. High School and Joliet Central High School.  He was employed by Com Ed, Joliet for 36 years before retiring in 2006.

Thomas was married to his loving and devoted wife, Regina (Ealy) Martin for 40 years.

Thomas was affectionately known as "Gyp" to his friends. He loved socializing with his friends the majority of whom were lifelong friends, too numerous to name. Gyp was funny and fun loving and lived life to the fullest. He loved to travel, particularly vacationing in San Juan, Puerto Rico twice a year, and going on cruise vacations.

Gyp was an avid golfer, playing golf several times each week with his "golf buddies". He also loved spending the winter at his golf country club home in sunny Boynton Beach, Florida.

He loved fine dining, music and he was a connoisseur of fine red wines, German and Belgium beer, particularly "Beck's" beer. Gyp was a "class act, he had swagger", his shoes were always shined, he never wore blue jeans or gym shoes.

Thomas was the patriarch of his family, his brothers and sisters loved him deeply and looked up to him.  He was a hard worker, a man of honesty and integrity, a good friend, a good husband and a good provider.

His positive attitude and love of life was reflected in his lifestyle. He was deeply loved by his family and friends and will truly be missed by all who knew him. He will live on in our hearts and minds forever more.

Thomas departed this life on Tuesday, August 7, 2018, at Joliet Area Community Hospice Home after a short, but courageous battle with throat cancer.

He is preceded in death by his parents, J. D. and Ella Mae Martin; and son, Vincent Martin.

Thomas is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Regina (Ealy) Martin; his loving son, Kyle Martin (Leticia Campbell, fiance) and daughter, Wynona (Rob) Kmet of Colorado, eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren; his siblings, Larry (Linda) Martin; Bryant (Sherry) Martin; Patsy Shannon; Pamela (Donald, deceased) Cousin of Joliet, IL and Kenneth Martin of Long Beach, CA; and other in-laws, and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

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