Gary Martin

Mr. Gary Martin, age 79, passed away peacefully at his home, Wednesday, October 8, 2025.

Gary was born September 2, 1946, in Shannon, Georgia, son of the late Lewis Richard Martin and Mary Keith Martin Ross.

Gary served Polk County faithfully for many years, serving the last six years as a County Commissioner. He often referred to himself as “Commish” which he proudly displayed on the tag of his car. Gary Martin dedicated his life to public service, working tirelessly to improve the quality of life for all residents in Polk County. After many years of devout service to the Polk County School Board and City of Cedartown, Mr. Martin was elected to serve as County Commissioner in 2019. During his tenure with the County, Gary played an instrumental role in many key accomplishments, serving as Chairman of the Airport and Bid Committees, as well as serving on the Public Works Committee. For more than 60 years, Mr. Martin was also regarded as a beloved neighborhood “hairstylist,” operating Martin’s Styling Center in the heart of Cedartown. His shop became more than just a place for a haircut, but a gathering place where stories were shared, friendships were formed, and generations of residents felt right at home. Known for his simple acts of kindness, it was not at all uncommon for Gary to drop by unannounced by Polk County businesses with a box of donuts, taking time to visit and share a smile with staff. It was gestures like these that reflect his genuine love for people and desire to connect with those around him.

Another reflection of his love for Polk County was his love for the Cedartown Bulldogs Football team. For thirty years he faithfully kept the football statistics for WGAA Radio. He considered Cedar Valley Golf Course to be a second home. He spent many hours and made many friends there over the years. A nod to Gary’s fun personality was his frequently used talent of signing his name backwards with ease. Gary was a proud and loving father to his son, Wade, and a friend to all. Gary’s presence, larger-than-life personality, and humble spirit will be missed by many for years to come.

In addition to his parents, Gary is preceded in death by a sister, Claris Geneva Martin, and nephew, Mark Nelson.

Gary is survived by his son, Wade Martin and his wife, Debbie, of The Villages, Florida; brother, Richard Martin of Bremen, Georgia; sister, Mary Sue Dillard of Shannon, Georgia; five nieces; three nephews; and numerous cousins.

Funeral services to celebrate a life well lived will be held Monday, October 13, 2025, at 2:00 PM, at Cedartown First Methodist Church, with Reverend Britt Madden, Jr. and Reverend Connor Hooper officiating. Eulogies will be given by Mr. David Lindsey and Mr. Clayton Tillery.

Interment will follow in Eastview Cemetery in Rome, Georgia.

The family will receive friends on Monday, October 13, 2025, at Cedartown First Methodist Church, from 12:00 PM until the service hour.

The following gentlemen will serve as pallbearers: Wade Martin, David Lindsey, Clayton Tillery, Russell Tillery, Marty Robinson, Bob Shannon, and James Woody.

Honorary pallbearers will consist of Mr. Dewey Chandler, Mr. Tim Blankenship, and all current and former City of Cedartown Commissioners, Polk County Commissioners, and members of the Polk County School Board.

In lieu of flowers, Gary would have been honored for memorial contributions to be made in his honor to the Our House Women’s Shelter using the following link https://givebutter.com/polk-county-womens-shelter-inc, or by mail at PO BOX 1647 Cedartown, GA 30125.

The Smith & Miller Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Gary Martin.