Opal Marie Trickett Martin, 97, of Kingwood, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2020, at Pine Ridge Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation (Stonerise) in Kingwood. She was born Dec. 16, 1922, near Independence, a daughter of the late William and Emma May Trickett.
A retired elementary mathematics teacher, Opal received bachelor and master’s degrees in mathematics education from West Virginia University. Her teaching career began in 1944 when she was asked by the Preston County Board of Education to leave Salem College with an associate’s degree to fill one of the many vacancies by teachers serving in World War II. For over 30 years, Opal enjoyed teaching (especially mathematics) and had a special love for her students.
She was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She delighted in attending athletic events, 4-H activities, school programs, and family events.
She was a member of Kingwood Baptist Church where she spent many years teaching Sunday school. She was also a life member of the VFW Auxiliary and Retired Teachers of West Virginia.
While retired, she traveled to all 50 states and most of Europe. She was an avid bingo player.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Guy Earl Martin; her oldest son, Victor Guy Martin; an infant son, William Ervin (Little Billy) Martin; and 11 brothers and sisters.
She is survived by her son, Stephen Grant Martin and wife Linnie; daughter, Deborah Marie Grimes and husband Raymond; and daughter-in-law Beate Sachwitz Martin.
She was very proud of her eight grandchildren: Raymond Eugene “Reggie” Grimes and wife Sharon, David Leigh Grimes and wife Alisa, Michael Adam Grimes and fiancé Ashley, Nicole Beate Irish and husband Shannon, Angela Marie Mayle and husband Tim, Stephan Grant Martin and wife Stephanie, Craig Wade DeBerry and wife April and Kelly Lee Barrow and husband Bill.
A special part of her life were her 14 great-grandchildren: Bryson Grimes and wife Desiree, Brianna Grimes and fiancé Damian, Hunter Grimes and sisters Gracy Howdershelt and Miley Rodeheaver, Laurel Grimes, Tanner Grimes, Aiden Irish, Ian Irish, Kaitlyn Irish, Conner Irish, Asa Mayle, Briar Mayle, Gabriel Martin, Julian Martin, Van Martin, Hunter Barrow, Alexis Barrow, Tori DeBerry and Brooke DeBerry.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private funeral service for immediate family will be held on Saturday, Dec. 12 followed by a graveside service at Maplewood Cemetery with the Rev. Charles Warger officiating. During the services, social distancing and masks are required.
Donations in Memory of Opal Martin may be made to Kingwood Baptist Church, 201 Jackson Street, Kingwood, WV 26537.
Condolences:
www.browningfuneralhomewv.com
