Celebrating the Life & Legacy of
GIFFORD LU T H E R MARTIN SR. BORN: May 27th, 1945 DIED: January 22nd, 2024 AGE: 78 years SERVICE HELD AT:
Community Holiness Church Martin Town, E.M.R
DATE: Saturday February 17th, 2024 at 11:00 am OFFICIATING:
Apostle Tyrone Thomas Freeport Great Faith Ministry
ASSISTED BY:
Bishop Ricardo Grant Community Holiness | Universal Household of Faith Pastor Agatha Martin - Mt. Zion Baptist Church
INTERMENT MADE IN: Harbour West Cemetery Eight Mile Rock, G.B.
SERVICES RENDERED BY:
Russell and Pinder’s Funeral Home
Obituary for The Late
GIFFORD L. MARTIN SR. Revelation 21:4 - He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. A Time to Be Born: On Sunday, May 27th, 1945, exactly 78 years, 8 months, and 21 days ago, Luther Jr. and Evelyn Brown-Martin welcomed their first child together into the world – Gifford Cobbit Martin. Born in Brady Town and later moving to West End with his parents, Gifford’s early years were marked by a warm smile and an affectionate personality, which fostered deep connections with his family, and created a foundation for a life rich in love and meaningful relationships. A Time to Learn: Gifford’s educational journey began at the West End All Aged School, culminating in his graduation at the tender age of fourteen. Despite his youth, his charm and friendly nature left an indelible mark on those around him. Gifford’s formative years were enriched not only by his academic pursuits but also by the time spent with his cousins in Brady Town, developing strong family bonds. A Time for Work: Driven by a passion for heavy machinery, Gifford embarked on a fulfilling career as a Heavy Equipment Operator. For many years, he operated backhoes for Glenerik International, earning a reputation as a committed, excellent, and hardworking professional. Mr. Hindley consistently praised him as a valuable contributor to the company. His dedication extended beyond routine operations, as Gifford became the go-to person for equipment maintenance. Even after leaving Glenerik International, he continued working independently, contributing his skills to various projects throughout Grand Bahama. A Time to Love: In 1968, Gifford met a vibrant, soft spoken, sixteen years old young woman by the name of Carol Missick, whom he fell in love with, and later in 1969, entered the sacred union of marriage. From this union, he became a proud father to three beautiful children: Melverne, Audra, and the late Gifford Jr.
After the birth of his first son, he gave him his full name and then he legally changed his own middle name to Luther. When asked why he did it, his reply was short and to the point, “because I didn’t like the name and was waiting to give it away.” Tragically, in 1985, Gifford faced the loss of his beloved first wife, Carol Martin. Beyond this, he went on to embrace the joys of fatherhood with four more loving children, Katina, Luther Mario, Ragin and Cassidy Martin. Gifford’s commitment to his children, reflected a depth of love and dedication that defined his role as a father. In 2010, while visiting a friend, he met a lady by the name of Rosita. Their companionship blossomed into marriage in October 2017, bringing a new chapter of love and family into Gifford’s later years. A Time to be Strong: In his final years, Gifford faced challenges with resilience, finding solace and strength in the comforting embrace of friends and family. Despite the hardships, his unwavering spirit and enduring love for those closest to him shone through. Surrounded by the warmth of companionship, Gifford drew strength from the cherished relationships he had cultivated over a lifetime. In the midst of adversity, the support of loved ones became a beacon of comfort, illuminating the path of his journey and creating a tapestry of shared moments that would be remembered fondly by those who had the privilege of being part of his extended family. A Time to Die: On Monday, January 22nd, around 8:30am, he would peacefully leave this earth and go on to his eternal home. Predeceased by his son: Gifford Martin Jr. and Grandson: Jamond Henfield I Left to cherish his memories are his wife: Rosita Rene Children: Melverne (Bishop ‘Elect’ Dwight) Jennings, Audra (Jason) Henfield, Katina, Luther Mario (Audenique), Ragin and Cassidy Martin Grandchildren: Deidra (Rashad) Smith, Jatazia Henfield, Deondre, Davonte and Danesha Jennings, Danika (Samuel) McIntosh, Angel, Alex, Malik, G’Nae, Gniya, Ashley, Alexis, Alex, Ahmari, Mateo Martin and Laquon Gibson Great Grandchildren: Jamond Henfield II, Rashae Smith, Sovereign and Shiloh McIntosh, D’Nala Jennings, Shena Martin, and Dewitt Cunningham II Brothers: Kentley, Carlton (Irene), Lionel (Rosemary), Kendal Sr. (Claire), Dangle Sr. (Shanna) and Dempsey (Krishna) Martin
Sisters: Junnie Mae (Ashman) Duncan, Zerlene Lowe, Evelyn ‘Veda’ Martin, Doreen (Martin) Dean and Delora (Brently) Forbes Nieces: Rhonda and Deborah Duncan, Desirene (Christopher) Adderley, Rebecca (Floyd) Gardiner, McKeva (Jerome) Gary, Netika (Thomas) Wade, Lanelle (Rodney) Murdock, Laniqua, Ella, Evelyn, Philecia, Sade, Kendrea, Kendra, Danielle, Leneise, Latanya, Stacey Martin, Clevaughn (Micheal) Stuart, Nona (Virgil) Storr, T’Shera Gaitor, Clevelynn Lowe, Karly Williams, Matavia Dean, Marlo (Marquis) Nicolls, Nukeeba (Wenzel) Cooper, Xenia and Brittney Culmer. Madonna Woodside and Shantika Henfield. Nephews: George Richardson, Dwight, Obie (Jaton), Lathuli, Rouschard, Erwin, Reed, Kendal Jr, Philip Jr., Kadeem, Myles, Dangle Jr., Marvin Sr., Van, Wenzel and Jaheem Martin, Tory and Wondell Jr. Campbell, David Williams, Ricardo (Taminco) Dorsett, Brandon and Makaylin Forbes and Dwight Crew. Grand and Great Grand Nieces and Nephews too numerous to mention. Godchildren: Patrice Missick and Reginald McKenzie First Cousins: Esther (Sherwood) Russell, Perry, Sherick (Paddie), Kennedy, Jason and Pastor Agatha Martin, Ketorah (Rodney Sr.) Carey, Patrenda Whyly, Sandy (Deacon Dwayne) King, Betsy Russell, Daswell Sr., J.P. (Sylvia) Bevans, Nellie Wells, Lottie Munroe, Dorothy (William) Paige, Stephanie (Linville) Johnson, Sylvia Peterson, Ethel Munroe, Carolyn Rolle, Basil, Lundy (Donna) and Larry Jones, Angela Knowles and Ludell (Horatio) Stuart, Emma and Rose Martin. Other Relatives and Friends: Shornae and Linda Rolle, Maxine (Adam) Munroe, Gladstone ‘Moon’ (Daisy) and Sidney McPhee, Patricia Harding, Wilton Martin Jr., Sherry Thurston, Vernon Brown, Ethel Lundy, Marie Abouzeide, Melica Gibson, Vincent and Rose Henfield, Alexandria Bain, Patrick Knowles, Donald Williams, Bradford, Basil Armbrister, Patrice Moxey, Jane Rolle-Stuart and Family, Madeanna Bethel, Estelle Evans and Family, Apostle Tyrone Thomas and the family of Freeport Great Faith Ministry International, Bishop Ricardo and Pastor Shandlene Grant and members of Community Holiness Church, Pastor and Members of First Baptist Church and Mr. Leroy Glass, Thomas Hanchell, Mr. & Mrs. Leonard and Catherine Hindley and Glenerik International Ltd., The Pride of Grand Bahama Lodge #7 Prince Hall Affiliated and Doctors, Nurses and Staff at the Rand Memorial Hospital. Family of the Late: Ephraim (Mabel) and Vernel Martin, Emmabelle Forbes, Eltha Rolle, Doreen (Walter) Parker, Rev. Raymond Jones, Arnold, Randall, Samuel and Wilton Martin, Dennis and George Missick, Ralph Russell, Marcus Jones and many other family and friends too numerous to mention.
ORDER OF SERVICE ASCEND PROCESSION OF THE FAMILY PROCESSION OF THE CLERGY OPENING REMARKS | Bishop Ricardo Grant Community Holiness Church | Universal Household of Faith MODERATOR | Pastor Agatha Martin (Cousin) Mt. Zion Baptist Church OPENING HYMN | “Great is thy Faithfulness” Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father; there is no shadow of turning with thee; thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not; as thou hast been thou forever wilt be.
Summer and winter and springtime and harvest, sun, moon, and stars in their courses above join with all nature in manifold witness to thy great faithfulness, mercy, and love.
CHRUS Great is thy faithfulness! Great is thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see: all I have needed thy hand hath provided-Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide, strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!
INVOCATION | Rev’d Edmund Munroe (Cousin) Inspirational Global Ministries 1ST SCRIPTURE READING | Old Testament | Patrice Missick (Godchild) Ecclesiastes 3:1 – 8 (King James Version) TRIBUTE IN SONG | Nikia and Amber Hunt TRIBUTE | Worshipful Master Floyd Farrington The Pride of Grand Bahama Lodge #7 Prince Hall Affiliated
CONGREGATIONAL HYMN | “Glad Reunion Day” There will be a happy meeting in heaven I know, When we see the many loved ones we’ve known here below; Gather on the blessed hilltops with hearts all aglow, That will be a glad reunion day.
There within the holy city we’ll sing and rejoice, Praising Christ the blessed Savior with heart and with voice; Tell Him how we came to love Him and make Him our choice, That will be a glad reunion day.
CHORUS Glad (That will be a happy day) day, Yes, a wonderful day, Glad (That will be a happy day) day, Yes, a glorious day, There with all the holy angels and loved ones to stay, That will be a glad reunion day.
When we live a million years in that wonderful place, Basking in the love of Jesus, beholding His face, It will seem but just a moment of praising His grace, That will be a glad reunion day.
AS I KNEW HIM | Patrick Knowles (Friend) 2ND SCPTURE READING | New Testament | Desirene Adderley (Niece) 1 Corinthians 15:51 – 58 (King James Version) SOLO | Faye Beneby OBITUARY | Read in Silence MINISTERIAL TRIBUTE (2 mins. each) PRAISE AND WORSHIP by Ascend EULOGY | Apostle Tyrone Thomas Freeport Great Faith Ministry PRAYER FOR THE FAMILY | Bishop Ricardo Grant ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS | Russell and Pinders Funeral Home RECESSIONAL HYMN | “It’s alright now!” There was a time I travelled A lonely sinful road, Beneath a heavy burden bending low But now all things are different, For Jesus took my load, it’s alright now, I’m His I know.
And down a lonely pathway, without a friend to guide. I walked in sin and sorrow all alone. ‘Till Jesus came and found me. And drew me to His side, It’s alright now for I’m His own.
CHORUS It’s alright now, For I am in my Saviour’s care. It’s alright now, My Saviour hears and answers prayer. He’ll walk beside me, ‘Till I climb the heavenly stair And everything is alright now.
No more in sin I wander, No more in darkness roam The Lord has placed my feet on higher ground. Each day new heights I’m gaining. My soul is nearing Home, It’s alright now, I’m heaven.
GRAVESIDE SCRIPTURE READING | 1 Corin 15:12-22 | Pastor Agatha Martin PRAYER | Bishop Ricardo Grant COMMITAL FINAL WORDS | Apostle Tyrone Thomas GRAVESIDE HYMNS “When Peace Like a River” “And Can it Be” “Farther Along” “Heaven’s Jubilee” WHEN PEACE LIKE A RIVER When peace like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well, with my soul. CHORUS: It is well, it is well, With my soul, with my soul It is well, it is well, With my soul. Though Satan should buffet, tho’ trials should come, Let this blest assurance control, That Christ has regarded my helpless estate, And hath shed His own blood for my soul. It is well, it is well, With my soul, with my soul It is well, it is well, With my soul.
My Sin, Oh, the bliss of this glorious tho’t My sin not in part, but the whole, Is nailed to the cross and I bear it no more, Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, 0 my soul. It is well, it is well, With my soul, with my soul It is well, it is well, With my soul. And, Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight, The clouds be rolled back as a scroll, The trumpet shall sound and the Lord shall descend, “Even so” it is well with my soul.
AND CAN IT BE
FARTHER ALONG
And can it be that I should gain, An interest in the Saviour’s blood? Died He for me, who caused His pain? For me, who Him to death pursued? Amazing love! How can it be That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
Tempted and tried we’re oft made to wonder, Why it should be thus all the day long, While there are others living about us, Never molested tho in the wrong.
‘Tis myst’ry all! Th’ Immortal dies! Who can explore His strange design? In vain the first-born seraph tries To sound the depths of love divine ‘Tis mercy all! Let earth adore Let angel minds inquire no more. He left His father’s throne above, So free, so infinite His grace! Emptied Himself of all but love, And bled for Adam’s helpless race; ‘Tis mercy all! Immense and free, For 0 my God, it found out me! Long my imprisoned spirit lay, Fast bound in sin and nature’s night; Thine eye diffused a quick’ning ray, I woke, the dungeon flamed with light: My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth and followed Thee. No condemnation now I dread, Jesus, with all in Him is mine; Alive in Him, my living Head, And clothed in righteousness divine, Bold, I approach th’ eternal throne, And claim the crown, thru Christ, my own.
CHORUS: Farther along we’ll know all about it, Farther along we’ll understand why; Cheer up, my brothers, live in the sunshine We’ll understand it all by and by. When death has come and taken our loved ones, It leaves our home so lonely and drear. Then do we wonder, why others prosper, Living so wicked year after year. Farther along we’ll know all about it, Farther along we’ll understand why; Cheer up, my brothers, live in the sunshine We’ll understand it all by and by. Faithful till death said our loving Master, A few more days to labor and wait; Toils of the road will then seem as nothing, As we sweep thru that beautiful gate. CHORUS Farther along we’ll know all about it, Farther along we’ll understand why; Cheer up, my brothers, live in the sunshine We’ll understand it all by and by. When we see Jesus coming in glory, When He comes from His home in the sky. Then we shall meet Him in that bright mansion, We’ll understand it all by and by.
HEAVEN’S JUBILEE Some glad morning, we shall see Jesus in the air, Coming after you and me,Joy is ours to share; What rejoicing there will be when the saints shall rise, Headed for that jubilee, yonder in the skies. CHORUS Oh, what singing, Oh, what shouting. On that happy morning when we all shall rise; Oh, what glory, Hallelujah! When we meet our blessed Saviour in the skies. Seems that now I almost see all the sainted dead, Rising for that jubilee, that is just ahead; In the twinkling of an eye, changed with them to be, All the living saints to fly to that jubilee. CHORUS Oh, what singing, oh, what shouting. On that happy morning when we all shall rise; Oh, what glory, Hallelujah! When we meet our blessed Saviour in the skies. When with all the heav’nly host we begin to sing, Singing in the Holy Ghost, how the heav’ns will ring; Millions there will join the song, with them we shall be Praising Christ thru ages long, heaven’s jubilee.
“I’M FREE” Don’t grieve for me for now I’m free, I’m following the path God laid for me I took his hand when I heard him call, I turned my back and left it all I could not stay another day, To laugh, to love, to work or play Tasks left undone must stay that way, I’ve found that peace at the close of day If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joy A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, Ah yes, these things I too will miss Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish for you the sunshine of tomorrow My life’s been full, I’ve savored much, Good friends, good times, my loved one’s touch If my time seemed all too brief, Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief Lift up your heart, rejoice with me, God wanted me now, He set me free.
Remembering Our Dad…..
Daddy, I loved you in life and in death I love you still. I never expected you’d be gone so soon but God knows best and doeth all things well. Although it hurts deeply, I am forever grateful to God for the time he allowed us to share together. We created beautiful memories that will forever fill a special place in my heart. We ate together, played dominoes together, discussed scriptures together, attended church together, agreed to disagree by debating various topics together and then laughed together. Daddy, I saw and experienced the tough side of you but also saw and felt that softer side of you. When you spoke you were often stern, sometimes a bit harsh and definitely not easily otherwise persuaded. But I saw beyond that as there were times I watched you break and weep like a baby as I rubbed your back and comforted you just as one would an infant. I knew then that God was at work. Your words, ‘Mellie, I appreciate you’ and ‘Dwight, God will always bless you’ will forever ring as a sweet melody in our ears and serve as a constant reminder that you knew despite everything, we loved you. Rest in the arms of Jesus daddy. We love you, but Jesus loves you best. Your daughter and son – Melverne and Dwight
Dear Daddy, I’m not sure how to feel about this lost, there were more conversations to be had and more time to be spent. We argued and we got along, it became normal because there was always tomorrow to fix it. But now there is no tomorrow to be fixed and I’m still not sure how to come to terms with that. Our story was never a perfect story but despite it all I will always love you and miss you. Sleep in eternal peace daddy, Your son, Luther Mario
I
n loving memory of my extraordinary father, whose smile could light a room. Memories of you flood my mind - From your passionate storytelling to your really bad jokes. I cherish these. There’s so much I wish I could say, expressing gratitude for all the ways you’ve poured into me - your love, your sacrifices, your words of encouragement and appreciation. I’ll forever hold dear the moments when I could see in your eyes just how proud you were of me. You made every accomplishment more meaningful. Your absence is so loud and my heart is broken. You brought so much warmth and laughter to our lives. Your wisdom, kindness and humor will continue to shape who I am and who I strive to be each day. I love you, today and always. Ragin Martin
To my sweet Daddy
January 22 will always be a day I remember in sadness. The realization that I won’t see you or hear your voice again is still unfathomable. Since the day you left, it feels like my world got dimmer. Yet, our memories still shine bright, even in my darkest hours. The moments we shared serve as a comforting reminder of our bond. Among the many memories, some shine more brilliantly, like the ones from our weekly trips to the bookstore when I was younger. Equally impactful was our shared enthusiasm for puzzles. To me, these weren’t just leisurely activities- they were building blocks that laid the foundation for the woman I have become. Today, as I hold a master’s degree, I owe a debt of gratitude to the seeds of knowledge you planted during my formative years. Daddy, your influence is not just a memory; it’s a living force that guides me daily. Thank you for loving me unconditionally, out loud, and in every sudoku puzzle and book page we shared. Your Sweet Baby, Cassidy Mya
You went away so suddenly We did not say goodbye But special ones can never be parted Precious memories never die. The Family
When We Lost You
We wish we could see you one more time, Come walking through our door But we know that is impossible We will hear your voice no more. We know you can feel our tears And you don’t want us to cry Yet our hearts are broken because we just can’t understand Why someone like you so precious so soon had to die. We pray that God will give us strength and somehow get us through As we struggle with this heartache that came when we lost you. We love you granddaddy. Your grandchildren Deidra (Rashad), Jatazia, Deondre, Danika (Samuel), Danesha, Davonte, G’Nae, Malik, Alex, Laquan and Gniya, Angel, Alexis, Ashley, Alex and Ahmari
We Miss You
We cried when you passed away We still cry today. Although we loved you dearly, We couldn’t make you stay. Your golden heart stopped beating, Hard working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us He only takes the best. We love you Great granddaddy. Your babies
Rashae, Jamond, Sovereign, D’Nala, Shiloh, Shena and Dewitt
WHEN I AM GONE...
IN APPRECIATION:
When I am gone, release me, let me go. I have so many things to see and do, You mustn’t tie yourself to me with too many tears, But be thankful we had so many good years. I gave you my love, and you can only guess How much you’ve given me in happiness. I thank you for the love that you have shown, But now it is time I traveled on alone.
People everywhere in life, from every walk in life have given us so many things intangible and dear, We can’t begin to count them all, or even make them clear, we only know we owe so much to people everywhere. You have brought sunshine into our homes, you have visited, prayed, called, asked about us, brought gifts and simply cared, for this we are thankful. Our sorrow is easier to bear because of God and people like you. Also attached is the cover photo, can Addis kindly whiten the smile for us please.
So grieve for me a while, if grieve you must, Then let your grief be comforted by trust. It is only for a while that we must part, So treasure the memories within your heart. I won’t be far away for life goes on. And if you need me, call and I will come. Though you can’t see or touch me, I will be near. And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear, All my love around you soft and clear. And then, when you come this way alone, I’ll greet you with a smile and a ‘Welcome Home’.
PALL BEARERS: Luther Mario Martin Lionel Martin Dempsey Martin Myles Martin Kadeem Martin Davonte Jennings Floyd Gardiner Jr. Thron Duncan Jordan Duncan Dempsey Martin
HONOURARY PALL BEARERS: Dangle Martin Carlton Martin Dwight Jennings Jason Henfield Deondre Jennings Ashman Duncan Perry Martin Kentley Martin Kendal Martin Sr. Dwight Martin
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