Martin Speakes' Obituary
Martin Edward Speakes, son of Ernest Clarence and Nettie Garrett Speakes, was born January 10, 1927 in Leachville, Arkansas. He departed this life Wednesday, March 9, 2010 at Glenwood Healthcare, in Seymour, Missouri at the age of eighty-four years, one month, and twenty-seven days.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Bobby Joe Speakes.
Martin is survived by his son, Paul Speakes and wife Sheila, of Marshfield, Missouri; his daughter, Debra Helms and husband Mike, of Seymour, Missouri; his grandchildren, Sheryl Atwell and husband Eric, Brandon Speakes, Bruce Jones and wife Glenda, Jonathon Jones, Michael Jones and girlfriend, Nikki Rodman, and Bill Jones; his great-grandchildren, Klay, Kristoffer, Haylee, Michaela, Jessica, David Bruce, Shelby, and Dalton; his sisters, Shirley Davis, of Modesto, California, Myra Speakes, of Piedmont, Missouri, Pat Ricks, of Pacific, Missouri, and Betty June Masterson, of Modesto, California; several nieces and nephews, as well as a host of other relatives and many dear friends.
Martin spent his younger years living in the Kennett and Clarkton areas of the Missouri Bootheel. Following his graduation from high school, Martin joined the United States Navy and served his country faithfully for several years.
He was called to be a Pastor in 1970, and as the Pastor at the Mansfield Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Mansfield, Missouri for ten years. He left for California in 1980 and worked as a Pastor there before moving back to Mansfield in 1992. Following his return to Mansfield, Martin served as the Pastor at the Presbyterian Church until his retirement.
He was a proud member of the Clarence King Post #128 of the American Legion in Mansfield and was on the Military Funeral Honors Team for as long as his health would allow.
In his spare time, Martin enjoyed studying the Bible and enjoyed listening to gospel and country music.
Martin was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle, and was a caring neighbor and friend. We celebrate his life and accomplishments and will treasure the many wonderful memories he has created for his family and friends.
Graveside services will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 14, 2011 in the Missouri Veterans' Cemetery, Springfield, Missouri.
Visitation will be from 2-3:00 p.m. Saturday afternoon in the Holman-Howe Chapel, Seymour, Missouri.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Holman-Howe Funeral Home of Seymour.
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