June 27, 1937 – October 26, 2017
Chester W. Martin passed away on October 26, 2017 at his residence after a long illness. He was the son of the late R. C. and Madie Martin of Fayetteville. He was a graduate of Lincoln County High School and attended Middle Tennessee State University. He was employed by NASA in the propulsion laboratory S&E at the Marshall Space Flight Center and at a ceremony in 1990 was awarded the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s Exceptional Service Medal for significant contributions to the successful design, development and test of the Space Shuttle solid rocket booster servoactuators through technical skill, dedication and knowledge of servomechanisms. Following his retirement from NASA, he was employed by Jacobs Engineering in Huntsville for ten years. He was also a member of the United States Army Reserve, and following basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Huntsville, AL.
Chester was one of the founders of Boy Scout Troop 357 where he served as Scoutmaster. He received the Long Rifle Award, the Silver Beaver Award, and was made an Honorary Eagle Scout. He was a Wood Badge Course Director and served on the Executive Board of the Middle Tennessee Council. Chester was a member of Kelso Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and at the Kelso and Fayetteville Churches, he served as Deacon, Elder, Sunday School Teacher, and Bible Study Leader.
Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Linda Joyce Martin; daughter, Linda Taylor; son, David Martin and wife Sharon; seven grandchildren, Carrie, Michael and Amanda Patrick, and Joshua, Andrew, Shayla, and Sophia Martin.
Funeral service will be conducted Saturday, October 28, 2017, at 1 PM at Higgins Funeral Home with Rev. Tony Gaskin officiating. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be held Saturday, October 28, 2017, at 11 AM until time of service at 1 PM at Higgins Funeral Home.
Linda, David, Linda and the grandchildren, Thinking of all of you at such a sad time. The sweet memories that you have will be a source of great comfort in the days ahead. Chester left a positive influence in the lives of so many through his work, his church activities and his many years working with Boy Scouts at every level. No doubt he has already heard the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant” from his Lord.
David, Sharon and family, You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God hold you in His arms as we hold you in our heart.
Judy, Mike and Jonathan McLeod