James "Keither" Martin

James Keither Martin, 88, of Abilene, passed away on Thursday, June 2, 2022, in Abilene.

A Memorial service will be held on Friday, June 10, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. at New Beginnings Church, 5535 Buffalo Gap Road, with Pastor Jonathan Neely officiating.

Keither Martin was born in Gorman, Texas to Frank and Faye Martin on January 31, 1934. He graduated from Plainview High School and immediately began his lifelong career as an accountant. He married Pat Hudson on February 16, 1952, in Texico, New Mexico. He grew up in the United Pentecostal Church as a pastor’s son and learned to play the mandolin for services. Later in life, he met and married Connie Canaga, and together they moved to Abilene, Texas. He was the church secretary and bookkeeper for New Beginnings; he and his wife formed the Golden Pillars, and were heavily involved, making church their priority.

Keither was preceded in death by his wife Connie; his parents Frank and Faye; his brother Elroy Martin and sister-in-law LaJoyce Martin; as well as his stepdaughter Julie Talley.

Keither is survived by his daughter, Lori, and Tom Fletcher of Abilene, Texas; his daughter, Renee McLoud of Daytona Beach, Florida; his son, Mark, and Myra Martin of Dallas, Texas; his stepson, Thomas Jessup of Battleground, Washington; his stepdaughter, Catherine Aragon of Englewood, Colorado; his stepdaughter, Christine Elliott of Lufkin, Texas; his stepdaughter, Diana Winthers of Huntington Beach, California; his sister, Rachel Martin of DeLeon, Texas; Over 50 grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Rodney Wilson, Thomas Anglemyer, Bill Phipps, Aaron Roe, Brandt Fisher, Dave Lane, Kevin Skiles, and Weston Laws.

The family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to Hendrick Medical Center and staff, Kindred Hospice, New Beginnings Church, Southpoint Church, and Neisha Wilson for their care and assistance.