Senator Phil Williams Mourns Passing of Congressman James D. Martin

STATE SENATOR PHIL WILLIAMS

Alabama State Senate, District 10

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 30th, 2017

Sen. Williams Statement Mourning the Loss of Congressman James D. Martin

Senator Phil Williams (R-Rainbow City) in his official capacities as both State Senator for District 10 and as the Chairman for the Etowah County Republican Party issues the following statement:

“This morning our community awoke to the sad news that someone who was dearly loved by so many had passed away. Jim Martin was someone whom I personally considered a friend, a mentor, and a hero. He was a pillar of our State in so many ways. Jim served admirably in World War II and became one of the first US Officers to break open the gates of a Nazi concentration camp. In the years following the war Jim became a successful businessman and married the former Miss Alabama, his wife of many years, Pat Martin. Miss Pat, their children and grandchildren were the highlights of his life.

In the early 1960’s Jim successfully ran for Congress as a Republican and by doing so he paved the way for the growth of GOP politics in the State of Alabama. Until his passing he was listed as the oldest living former member of the U.S. House of Representatives at 99 years old. His influence remained intact for decades and he later served as Alabama’s Commissioner of Conservation and Natural Resources. His personal influence with the first Bush Administration is credited with having solidified Alabama’s right to offshore oil and gas revenues. Fifteen years ago Jim took me to lunch and gave me advice about my budding interest in politics. In recent years he opened his home to others and encouraged my wife Charlene and I in our campaigns for the State Senate. He greeted us so warmly at every encounter. We remain grateful, and have never overcome the wonder of it all.

Just a month ago Jim led the Etowah County GOP Breakfast in a rousing rendition of ‘God Bless America’. Two weeks ago he greeted me at Kiwanis. Today he went home to his Lord. Jim Martin lived a full life, and lived it well. He was a pillar of our community and he will be greatly missed.”

Senator Phil Williams represents District 10 in the Alabama State Senate, which is comprised of all or parts of Etowah, Cherokee, St. Clair, and DeKalb counties. He and his wife, Charlene, make their home in Rainbow City. Follow him on Facebook at facebook.com/Phil.Williams.14 or on Twitter for his latest legislative updates: @SenPhilWilliams

State Senator Phil Williams represents Alabama’s 10th Senate District consisting of Cherokee, DeKalb, Etowah and St. Clair Counties  He can be reached at phil@williamsstatesenate.com or 334-242-7857 

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