W.T. Shumake & Daughters

MSG Leonard Thomas Martin, 91 of Louisville transitioned to his heavenly home on Monday, June 26, 2023.

Visitation 2-3pm Sunday, July 2, 2023 at Community Missionary Baptist Church 4909 E. Indian Trail. Funeral to follow at 3pm. Burial 2:30pm Monday, July 3, 2023 at Kentucky Veteran Cemetery, 2501 N. Dixie Blvd, Radcliff, Kentucky.

Leonard Thomas Martin was born on Friday, January 15, 1932, in Huntington, West Virginia to the late Vada Martin. He was the oldest of her four children.

Leonard attended Douglas High School in West Virginia, and was a proud member of the band. After graduating from high school, he moved to Columbus, Ohio, and attended Ohio State University until he was drafted into the United States Army. While in the Army, Leonard excelled through the ranks serving his country and completing multiple tours abroad to Korea and Germany. Leonard’s 22 years in the military awarded him a tour of duty during which he fought in the Korean War, received the Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Medal with cluster, Korean Campaign with 4 stars, Korean Defense Medal, and Korean Occupation Ribbon. After 22 years in the Army, Leonard retired with the rank of Master Sergeant. His military experiences granted him the privilege to become a member of the American Legion.

Leonard’s retirement from the military did not last long, because he continued serving the United States, by being employed at the United States Postal Service, and faithfully serving another 17 years. As an employee at the Post Office, he proudly kept the facilities clean, the floors sparkling, and the lawns manicured. Leonard may have retired from the Army, but he never forgot his many memories, because he daily wore his “Retired” Military Hat.

The military was not the only phase of Leonard’s true self. He was an excellent cook, enjoyed listening to Jazz, carried his camera everywhere to capture all events, prepared taxes for many, chauffeured anyone who needed a ride, was willing to assist anyone that needed help, and knew how to relax and wind down with his cold can of “granddaddy’s pop”. Confessing his belief in the Lord Jesus Christ, was exemplified in his character as a Servant for the Lord through helping others.

Leonard’s loved ones will fondly remember him as Daddy, Granddaddy, “20- 20”, Uncle Leonard, Leonard, Mr. Martin, and 1st Sergeant.

Leonard Thomas Martin, a proud Veteran of the United States Army, transitioned to his Heavenly home on Monday, June 26, 2023. He was preceded in death by his brother, Marvin; and his sister, Joyce.

He leaves to cherish his memories, his wife of 64 years, Thelma B; his younger brother, Gerald (Lynn); and his five children, Randy (Aimee), Kenneth, Berita (Roger), Gwendolyn (Kent), and Gisela (Paul); six grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, two great great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many friends.