Albert Dewayne Martin, age 70, passed away unexpectedly at Starr Regional Medical Center on Sunday, June 14, 2026.

Dewayne was born on January 6, 1956, in Athens, Tennessee, to the late Albert and Pauline Martin. He was raised in Athens and later settled down in Decatur, Tennessee, with his beloved wife of 42 wonderful years, Geraldine. Together, they built a life centered around love, family, and cherished memories.

Dewayne was a true outdoorsman who found peace and happiness in nature. He always worked hard to provide for his family. He was a tub operator at Charleston Hosiery/Renfro for over 25 years. He and Geraldine enjoyed traveling to the Smoky Mountains together, where he was known to spend a lot of time walking and exploring with Geraldine and the kids. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and watching his favorite Discovery Channel shows, such as those about Bigfoot, which his granddaughter lovingly laughs about now. Dewayne also enjoyed watching NASCAR with his son-in-law, Chad.

He had a playful and loving spirit, stopping to pick up candy for his grandsons every day after school, and enjoying lighthearted pranks with his grandchildren just to make them laugh. Dewayne was a talented cook who especially loved preparing meals for his family. His grandchildren will always cherish "fried chicken Mondays". He looked forward to Friday night dates with Shawna and their Chinese take out! Though he was soft-spoken and laid-back, he had a feisty side that his son looks back on smiling, and a wonderful sense of humor, often "aggravating" those he loved in a way that always brought smiles.

Dewayne will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandmother, Annie Davis; his brothers, Donnie, Scottie, and Mitchell Martin; and his brothers-in-law, Terry Hart and Raymond Burnette.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife, Geraldine Martin; his children, Matthew Martin and Shawna (Chad) Green; his grandchildren, Brianna Taylor, Connor Green, Syler Green, and Colin Green; his sisters, Doris Hart, Gail (Eddie) Robinson, Janie (Dale) Moore, Connie Burnette, Kathy (Jeff) Boruff, and Melissa (Johnny) Frerichs; and nephew, Tracy Kirby, with whom he shared a close and meaningful bond, along with many other nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

A memorial gathering will be held at the Chapel of Companion Funeral Home in Athens, Tennessee. The date and time will be announced once arrangements are finalized.