Brenda Gayle (Dutton) Martin
July 28, 1945 — June 19, 2017
Brenda (Dutton) Martin, age 71, went to be with our Lord and Savior on Monday, June 19, 2017, while at her home in Tuscola, TX. A graveside service will be held at 11am June 24, 2017, in the Little Saline Cemetery in Menard County, directed by Fry-Smith Funeral Home, Tuscola. A visitation will be held on Friday, June 23, from 5 to 7pm at the funeral home in Tuscola.
She was born on July 28, 1945, in Ruston, Louisiana. She later moved to San Angelo and graduated from San Angelo Central High School in 1963.
On April 23, 1967, she married the true love of her life, Ray Martin. They went on to enjoy a life full of love and many adventures raising their sons as well as their very special grandson.
It became obvious at an early age that Brenda was blessed with the gift of beautiful vocals. At the highlight of her singing career, she had the pleasure of singing with local Odessa stars Pepper Martin and Little Joe. Although she loved singing with Pepper and Little Joe, her most joyful time performing was singing with her children. Who were obviously, as they say, not as talented as her but she sure made them feel like they were!
Brenda had a strong Christian faith and studied her Bible daily. Her family is at peace knowing she is in Heaven reunited with all of her loved ones.
2 Timothy 4:7
She was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, E. Ray Martin.
Brenda is survived by her son, Daryl Bradley Cates and wife Donna; son, Waylon Ray Martin; son, Harlan Ray Martin; grandson, Toby Ray Martin and wife Yujin; her “baby girl” granddaughter Baylie Pearl Cates and sweet grandson Jaden Glyn Cates, sister, Brandy Cox, brother, Tim Warp, brother, Gary Dutton and wife Sharon. She is also survived by J.D. Martin, Fred and Wanda Wilson, Bender and Marilyn Martin; as well as many nieces, nephews and many friends whom she loved dearly.
Pallbearers will be Daryl Cates, Waylon Ray Martin, Harlan Ray Martin, Toby Ray Martin, Jaden Glyn Cates and Bender Preston Martin.
From Mom’s personal writings:
“Today I pulled out the final and most valuable possession in my Daily Survival Kit. It helps me with answers to daily struggles in life and situations. It teaches me faith, hope, and trust for a better tomorrow. It comforts me in my sad times, past and present. It assures me the last breath I take will be the first breath with my Creator. Yes, by now you must know…my most valuable possession is my Bible.”