Billy Ray Martin

Billy Ray Martin, 74, of Bald Knob, passed away peacefully July 22nd surrounded by his family. He was born May 3, 1943 the third son of Mary and Burl Martin. He lived life to the fullest. He was always smiling and laughing. He loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing and gardening. His love of traveling and hunting took him across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica and Africa, often with children and grandchildren in tow. He was raised to have a good work ethic and a good heart. Through his business, B&J Construction, he offered jobs and community for nearly 40 years. He had many life-long employees. He was a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He will be deeply missed by family and friends. While we are sad to lose him, we know he is now walking the streets of gold, reunited with his wife and family members who preceded him; his parents, his brother, Adell and his wife, Pat. He is survived by three children; daughter, Tammy Herman (Jerry); daughter, Theressa Mandrell and son, Steven Martin; 8 grandchildren and 7 1/2 great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, if you would like to honor Bill in a different way, the family suggests that you make a donation to the David Oakes Memorial Scholarship Fund through the Bald Knob Public Education Foundation. David was a long-time B&J employee who passed away in 2011. Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 26, 2017 from 3:30-5 p.m. Services will follow at 5 p.m. at the Powell Funeral Home Chapel with Dale Brooks and Bobby Davis officiating. Entombment will be at Carter Cemetery by Powell Funeral Home, Bald Knob – Judsonia. www.powellfuneralhome.net.