Rev. James Reginald Martin

Rev. James “Reg” Reginald Martin, 88, of Zanesville, died at 7:32 P.M. on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at the Genesis Hospice Morrison House, Zanesville. He was born December 2, 1936, in Edneyville, North Carolina, a son of the late William A. and Mabel Jane (Jackson) Martin. Reg attended college at Berea College in Kentucky and later graduated from Andover Newton Seminary School. He began his ministry at the 1st Baptist Church in Wilmington, Vermont, and went on to serve as Reverend in Lockport, and Cuba, New York, followed by ministries in Mount Gilead, Ohio, before eventually settling as Reverend at the First Baptist Church in Zanesville, Ohio.

James was passionate about faith and community. He especially loved participating in The Living Word Outdoor Drama in Cambridge, Ohio, where his dedication and spirit brought stories to life. Beyond his ministry, he enjoyed staying active, he loved to run, play golf, and go camping always embracing the joy of the outdoors.

He is survived by his wife, Gloria J. (Pavia) Martin, whom he married, January 19, 1963; a son, Craig Martin of Zanesville, OH; a daughter, Lisa (Steve) Bock of North Lewisburg, OH. ; Two grandchildren, Rachel Bock and Andrew Bock; and one sister, JoAnn (Bobby) Kinley of Charlotte NC.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by four sisters, Frances Middleton, Carol Porter, Phyllis Gentry and Fay Lawing; and one brother, Grady Martin.

A cremation will take place under the direction of the BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE, AT OUR LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED CREMATORY.

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