It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Dr. Ronald Grady “Rip” Martin, Sr., age 70 of Ruston, LA, formerly of Quitman, LA. Memorial services for Rip will be held at 2:00 PM, Friday, June 16, 2023 at Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home in Ruston with Bro. Kenneth Folden officiating.
Rip was born September 29, 1952 in West Monroe, LA to Virginia Griggs and Cleo Martin and departed from his worldly body to join his Heavenly Father June 12, 2023. He was a graduate of West Monroe High School. After completing his degree in Applied and Natural Sciences at Northeast Louisiana University, Rip furthered his education at LSU Health Science Center School of Dentistry in New Orleans, LA. He served his country during the Vietnam War as a Navy Corpsman. Rip began the pursuit of his career in dentistry in July of 1983 in Jonesboro, LA, and, in 1997, he constructed the office where he would solidify his legacy as one of the most beloved dentists that Jackson Parish has ever known. Rip continued his practice in this office for over 20 years. He will be remembered for so many things, but his love and compassion for others surpass it all. Rip was preceded in death by his parents and brother David Martin.
Rip is survived by his former wife Beverly Martin; their three children: Jennifer and husband Ronnie Sanderson, Ronnie Martin and Justin Martin and wife Kristina; five grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as “Pop-Pop:” Trace Sanderson, Ty Sanderson, Taylor Sanderson, Ayden Martin and Laela Martin; fiancée Christina Norred; and a host of other family and many friends.
Visitation will be held from 12:30-2:00 PM, Friday, June 16, 2023 at the funeral home.
