Philip Ray Martin

Philip Martin of Haskell, Texas, died and was reunited with his wife and our heavenly Father on July 30, 2023, at age 74.

He is survived by his children, Andrew and Katherine; his grandchildren, Dillon, Abigail, Hannah, and Daniel; and his niece Laura Shaw Robertson.

Philip was born in Garland, Texas, and moved to Abilene, Texas, to attend Hardin Simmons University, where he graduated with a degree in nursing, starting a 45-year career as a registered nurse and caregiver for hospitals and home health services around the area.

While in a chemistry class, he was entranced by his future wife, Laela. The two were married on April 1, 1972. Within a few years, they moved to Haskell, TX, to live and raise a family. They were married 50 years.

Philip was a nurse by vocation and a musician and minister by calling. His passion for Christ-centered worship was well known, and his music has been heard by thousands of people, not by CD or radio, but by one church service, funeral, or wedding at a time. While never classically trained, his unique style and unquestionable talent blessed many in the Cross Country Emmaus Community, his home church of Faith Chapel in Rochester, TX, and across the region.

Perhaps lesser known was the joy he received by playing Santa Clause for over twenty years at parties, parades, nursing homes, and festivities, and his general love of Christmas and the promise it brings to those who believe.

Philip was preceded in death by his parents, Ellis and Ruby Martin; his brother Thomas Martin; his sister Mary Martin Shaw and his beloved wife, Laela.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at Faith Chapel Church, Rochester, TX, with Rev. Randy Hollingsworth officiating under the direction of Smith Family Funeral Homes.

The family asks, in lieu of flowers, please send donations to your local hospice or Hospice of Wichita Falls, or favorite charity.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at www.smithfamilyfh.com.