Mary Frances Martin

Mary Francis (Powell) Martin, was born July 8, 1926 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Mary was the only girl child of five born to the Late Ike and Ella Powell. Mary Francis fought the good fight of faith and on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, fell quietly asleep in the arms of the Lord.

Mary married the late Fred Martin at an early age and to this union nine children were born: David Earl, Larry, Donald, Diane, Donna Marie, Jeffery, Carl, Carol and Tyrone.

After living in Detroit for a short time, the family moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where Mary gained employment as a chef, and later, with the South Euclid School District.

Mary confessed Christ in 1988 under the pastorate of the late Bishop Jesse Jame of Bethlehem Temple Pentecostal Church.

After the passing of the late Bishop James, Mary relocated her membership to Pilgrim Church of Christ under the pastorate of Bishop James A. Maye, where she served as Church Mother, until her health started to fail.

Mary was loved by many and shared her passion for cooking and socializing with people, especially her grandchildren and family.

Mary's love for dressing well and her beautiful hat collection spoke volumes of her love for fashion as well as her church family and its activities. She loved the songs "We have come this far by faith", and "Amazing Grace."

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Martin, her parents Ike and Ella Powell, four brothers, Samuel Coopwood, Bishop Jesse James, Rush Powell and Jim Powell, three children: David Earl, Donald, and Carol Martin.

Mary leaves to cherish her memory six children: Larry, Dee Rice, Donna Wilcher, Carl, Jeffery, and Tyrone Martin. Nichelle Martin, her eldest grandchild who held a special place in Mary's heart, along with a host of other grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends. Mary was loved by many and will be truly missed.