Rincon – Bernard William Martin, 71, died Saturday, December 31, 2022 at home.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 40 years, Becky M. Martin; his loving parents, Emmett L. and Edith Seckinger Martin; a sister, Loelita M. Bryant; and a brother, Ronald E. Martin.

He was a lifelong member of Rincon United Methodist Church, he also regularly attended Methodist Camp Meeting annually.

He was a military veteran of the United States Army where he served in Vietnam 1969 – 1974 achieving the rank of PFC E-3 status and was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Sharpshooter award.

"Bernie" as most knew him was an active member of his community.  He was past commander of the Rincon VFW Post #1242, he was a member of the American Legion Post #209 in Springfield.  He was also a member of the Savannah Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America.  After Hurricane Katrina in 2005 he became a dedicated volunteer of the American Red Cross where he volunteered his time for many years.  He served as a past Rincon City Council member and on the Planning and Zoning Board.

In later years he was most proud of his title of Papa and spending time with his 5 grandchildren.  He attended all of their recreational activities, spoiled them and spent time with them.

Survivors include his daughters, Heather M. Thames (Jamie) of Rincon and Stephanie M. Hall (Gary) of Guyton; 5 grandchildren, Holden Thames, Braylen Hall, Gracyn Hall, Harper Thames, and Alston Thames; a sister-in-law, Barbara Z. Covenah; several cousins, many nieces and nephews, and many friends.

Visitation will be 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, January 3, 2022 at the funeral home.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Wednesday, January 4, 2022 at Rincon United Methodist Church.

Interment will follow in Rincon Cemetery.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel. 912-754-6421