Paul Thomas Martin Sr., age 85, of Kokomo, Indiana, passed away on December 25, 2025, at 7:17 am. He was born on August 19, 1940, Paul lived a life defined by hard work, dedication, and quiet devotion to those he loved. He was a steady presence—reliable, determined, and unwavering in his commitment to family.
Paul was married to his wife, Elizabeth Edwards, for 64 years. Together they built a life grounded in loyalty, perseverance, and mutual support. He was a devoted father to Paul Thomas Martin Jr., Timothy Alan Martin, and Jeffrey Wayne Martin (Laurie). His role as husband and father was central to who he was, and he showed his care through consistency and action rather than words.
Paul spent 31 years working at Chrysler before retiring and served three years in the United States Army. He took great pride in his work and believed deeply in the value of showing up every day and doing the job right. That work ethic carried through every part of his life and was something he passed on by example.
In his free time, Paul enjoyed woodworking, working on cars, model trains and his yard. He found satisfaction in building, fixing, and understanding how things worked. These hobbies reflected his personality—focused, hands-on, and purposeful.
He was a proud grandfather to Seth, Raelene, Annah, Jordan, Julia, Lauren, and Keith, and great-grandfather to William, Annabelle, Xoey, Xena, Della, Ryan, and Brendan. His family brought him great pride, and he remained devoted to them and to his friends throughout his life.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie and Laverne Martin; his sisters, Phyllis Anderson and Patricia Huddleston; and his brother, Chester Martin. He is survived by his brother, Douglas Martin and many loving nieces and nephews.
Paul will be remembered as a steady, stubborn, hardworking man who believed in dedication, responsibility, and standing by the people who mattered to him.
A graveside service celebrating Paul’s life will begin 2:30 pm Saturday January 3, 2026, at Mount Hope Cemetery in Peru, IN. Military honors will be provided by the United States Army and the graveside will be officiated by Steven Claspell. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Paul’s memory to the Kokomo Humane Society. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
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