David Ray "Doc" Martin's Obituary
David Ray "Doc" Martin, age 88, of Jacinto City, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, in Deer Park, Texas. Born on April 1, 1937, in Wilmot, Arkansas, to Alexander and Maggie Martin, David lived a life defined by devotion to his family, his faith, and his country.
On May 4, 1960, David married Paula Cleveland in Jacinto City, Texas. Their marriage was a true partnership, filled with love, laughter, and shared purpose. Together, they raised a family grounded in the values of compassion, integrity, and faith.
David proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1956 to 1958, achieving the rank of Lance Corporal. After his military service, he worked as a mechanic for American Can Company for 17 years. He later became a pump and turbine mechanic at Phillips Petroleum, where he dedicated 19 years of service before retiring.
A man of deep spiritual conviction, David was a member of First Baptist Church of Jacinto City and First Baptist Church of Galena Park for over 30 years each, where he served as both deacon and Sunday School teacher. He found great joy in teaching Sunday school and sharing his love of scripture. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, and he lived it with humility and grace.
David’s passions included baseball, fishing, hunting, reading, and spending time with his family. He was a quiet and steady presence, known for his wisdom, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those he loved. To David, nothing mattered more than his family and his relationship with God.
He is survived by his daughters Pamela Bratcher and husband Ray, Karen Thomas and husband Brian, and Patricia Pieczynski and husband Dennis, and his son Steven Martin and wife Amy. He leaves behind three grandchildren: Kelly Cupstid and wife Jess, Austin Bratcher and wife Kelsey, and Audrey Kelley and husband Chad. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Callum Bratcher and Henry Kelley, and one on the way, Griffin David Bratcher. He is also survived by one brother-in-law, Jack Cleveland and wife Glenda, and numerous nieces and nephews.
David was preceded in death by his beloved wife Paula Martin; his parents Alexander and Maggie Martin; and his siblings Fred Martin, Dallas Martin, Lee Martin, William Martin, Lener Butler, and Benjamin Martin.
David Ray "Doc" Martin will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his love for his family, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his memory will be cherished forever
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