James Wesley Martin

James Wesley Martin (Jim), aged 88, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on June 27, 2025. He left behind a legacy of kindness, warmth and a life well lived. A beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend to all who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Sylvia (Tibby), his children, Michael Martin (Karin), Shelly Montgomery (Rowdy), Barry Martin (Monique) and Melissa Long (Brian), and his grandchildren, Hope, Grant and Jake Martin, McKenna and Logan Montgomery and Carter Long.

Jim was born in Redford, Missouri to Wesley and Eunice Martin on May 16, 1937. He was one of six children, Lowell Zene (Mary) (both deceased), Luingene (Irene) (both deceased), Luie Dean (deceased), Gerald Lee (Carole), and Willie Lou (Roger deceased). He graduated from high school in Centerville, Missouri in 1955 where he played basketball. He developed a true passion for the automobile at a young age going on to buy and trade over fifty cars in his lifetime. He loved to visit car lots and became great friends with other car enthusiasts along the way. 

Jim proudly served in the United States Army at Fort Lewis, Washington where he met his lovely wife while stationed there. He then had a successful career as a long-distance truck driver, driving over four-million miles without incident.

Jim loved connecting with people. Whether he was sharing a cup of coffee, talking cars or diving into current events of the day with friends and family, he did so with a spark in his eye and a contagious smile. Later in life Jim enjoyed painting the classics for friends and family and he especially liked the works of Van Gogh.

While Jim was a man of quiet faith, it was his acts of kindness that spoke the loudest- his generosity, patience and unwavering optimism reflected the values he held dear. His home was always a place of comfort and laughter, and his presence brought peace and positivity to those around him.

In honor of Jim, take a moment to share a story, enjoy a drive or sit down for a cup of coffee with someone you care about- just like he always did. Jim will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A private committal service will be held at Missouri Veteran's Cemetery.

A “Celebration of Life” service will be held in the Goodwin Center of the Baptist Home in Ozark, Missouri on Saturday, July 12th at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated in memory of Jim Martin to the Children’s Miracle Network, CoxHealth, PO Box 8812, Springfield, MO 65801-8812 or to the Disabled American Veterans at DAV.org.

Cremation rites will be accorded by Adams Crematory and arrangements are under direction of Adams Funeral Home, Ozark and will conduct a private committal service with full military honors at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Springfield, Missouri.