Today, we lovingly remember and celebrate the life of Paul Edwin Martin, who peacefully passed away on January 6, 2025, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and has now found eternal rest in his heavenly home. Paul was born on November 8, 1947, in Gassville, Arkansas, to Earnest L. Martin and Mildred Fay Mathews Martin. His journey took him from his birthplace to Miami, Oklahoma, and ultimately to Tulsa, where he would build a life filled with love, faith, and service.

Paul met the love of his life, Linda Kay Wing, at Lewis Avenue Assembly of God Church, a place that became the foundation for their love story. On December 16, 1966, they were united in marriage, and together, they recently celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary. Their partnership was rooted in faith, and for many years, they served as children's pastors at Woodlake Assembly of God, where their shared passion for teaching young hearts about Jesus shone brightly. Paul's ministry didn't end there-he continued to spread the gospel, using his gifts of music and words to touch lives. His poetic guitar playing, which he had loved since childhood, became a unique way for him to minister to those fortunate enough to listen. Even in his final days, he spoke of how grateful he was for the opportunity to share this special gift with others.

In his professional life, Paul worked in several car dealerships before transitioning to a long and fulfilling career in insurance. It was there that he truly came to flourish, using his incredible gift of conversation to connect with everyone he met. After 35 years of dedication, Paul retired in 2010. His love for people, his generosity, and his ability to make anyone feel at ease left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Paul's legacy as a devoted father and Papa is one that will live on in the hearts of his children and grandchildren. His summers were filled with memorable adventures-cruising the roads of Oklahoma on his bicycle during Freewheel with his kids, and introducing his grandchildren to the joys of canoeing, fishing, and camping at Camp Flint Ridge. His playful spirit and kind heart were also evident in his later years when he became the beloved figure, Santa Claus. From Halloween through Christmas, Paul would delight in passing out candy canes and spreading joy to every child who dared ask, "Are you Santa Claus?"

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Earnest and Mildred Martin, and his brothers Jack and James Martin. He is survived by his devoted wife, Linda Kay Wing, his children Kelly Diane, Anthony Paul (Kimberly Trewin), and Scott Edwin (Provin Shelton), as well as his cherished grandchildren-Emma Diane Clark, Ethan Earle Clark, Luke Anthony Martin, Hunter Davis Martin, and Heather Grace Martin. He is also survived by his brother Earnest Lee (Sheri) Martin and his sister Wanda Walker Benge.

To know Paul Martin was to experience a love that words can hardly capture-a love that was as deep as his faith in the Lord. He made everyone feel special and cherished, and his legacy will continue to live on in the countless lives he touched.

Celebration of Life will be 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 13, 2025, at Woodlake Church, 10444 S. Mingo, Tulsa, OK. Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233