Paul Eugene Martin was born on November 28, 1940 in the Hammond Community of Ozark County, the oldest of three children born to Vaughn and Norene (Lantz) Martin, and departed this life at his home in Ava on June 27, 2009 at the age of 68.

Paul served his country for 20 years in the United States Army, seeing combat in Vietnam during 1969. After retirement Paul returned to Ava in 1989 where he remained till his passing. Paul worked at the Rawlings plant where he was skilled in all aspects of baseball glove making. He enjoyed living in a small town and the simpler things that it brought, driving back roads, fishing, woodworking and playing the guitar on the front porch. Paul was a member of the VFW post 5993 of Ava.

Paul is survived by his mother Norene of Ava, three daughters, Nori and Curtis Curenton of St. Robert, Mo., Kristine Quedraogo of Washington, DC. and Paula Michelle Thomas of Greenbelt, Maryland. Paul is also survived by two sons, Kenneth and Denna Harding of Laquey, Mo. and Christopher and Ginny Martin of St. Robert Mo. He has 12 grandchildren, Ciren, Cavonn, Cuinton, Brian, Cory, Brianna, Taila, Eric, Troy, Luke, Alex, and Winnie. Survivors also include three nieces and three nephews, one brother Rick Martin of Rogersville, and a sister Phyllis Sanders of Springfield, two aunts, Fern Rhoades and Eula Wallace and special friends Jerry and Connie Opoien of Minnesota.

Funeral services for Paul E. Martin will be held on Tuesday June 30, 2009 in the Clinkingbeard Chapel at 2:00 P.M. with full military honors. Visitation will be from 1 till 2 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association at the funeral home.