Joanne Martin

Joanne Martin, a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished sister, and beloved grandmother, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2026, at the age of 80. Born to Evelyn Gamble and Joseph Donnan, Joanne lived a life defined by compassion, strength, and dedication to others. She spent 44 years as a nurse — a calling that perfectly reflected her caring heart and steadfast spirit. Her patients and colleagues were touched by her kindness, her skill, and her ability to make people feel truly seen and cared for. Joanne was known not only for her love but also for her honesty. She was a feisty lady who spoke her truth with courage and humor — you always knew where you stood with her, and her words, though direct, came from a place of deep love. Her strength, authenticity, and warmth made her the heart of her family and a friend who could always be counted on. She was the beloved wife of William M. Martin Sr., and the treasured mother of Derrick Stewart, Sidney Aguillard Jr., William McKinley Martin II (Angerline), and Jenny L. Martin. She took immense pride in her family, which continued to grow beautifully through her grandchildren — Janae Ruben, Derrick Stewart Jr., William Martin III, Destiny Stewart, Karlee Stewart, McKinley Martin, and Tiffany Johnson — and her great-grandchildren — Julian Ruben, Aiden Stewart, Aven Stewart, and D’Nyrhi Stewart. Joanne is survived by her sisters and brother, Nina Likens, Elizabeth Dunham, Alvin Dunham, and Dianne Bailey, and several great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her siblings Joseph Andrew Dunham Jr., Larry Ellis Dunham, Marvin Lee Watson, and Theron Cosey Sr. She is also lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews — Peter O. Goodly (Sabrina), Deltrina Goodly, Heather Kahn (Franz), Sprintza Cosey, Theron Cosey Jr. (Chrissy), and Roman Herrington, a host of great nieces and nephews and her dear cousin Edward Green, who was more like a big brother to her. Joanne’s vibrant personality, honest words, and loving heart left an unforgettable imprint on everyone who knew her. Her legacy of care, truth, and devotion lives on through her family, her friends, and the countless lives she touched throughout her 44 years as a nurse. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend her Funeral Service at Union Bethel AME Church, 2321 Thalia Street on Friday, February 6, 2026 at 10:00 am. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am. Interment: Lakelawn Park Cemetery. Arrangements by D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Avenue. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to share condolences and sign the guestbook.