Mr. Elbert "Al" Lee Martin

Mr. Elbert Lee Martin, 83, of Peoria, IL passed away at 2:30 pm on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center. Elbert was born on March 30, 1940 in Greenville, MS to Allie B. (Steward) Anding and Elbert Reed. He was married to his first wife, Hester Harris-Martin and later married his second wife, Charlene (King) Martin until her death. Elbert was the proud owner and operator of Al Martin Tree Service, a business through which he touched the lives of many in the community. His dedication extended beyond his work, as he often volunteered his time to barbecue for community events and cookouts, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him. The Peoria community recognized Elbert's contributions by establishing AL Martin Day, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the community. Each year, the celebration saw Elbert cooking his famous barbecue, accompanied by music, games and community clean-up activities. Elbert leaves to cherish his most precious memories, one son, Chauncey Martin of Peoria, IL; eight daughters, D’Lesia (Bill) Minor of Davenport, IA, Lillie Phillips of Waterloo, IA, Rhonda Haney of Medford, OR, Charlotte (Elder Billy) Vann, SR., of Seattle, WA, Chante` (Charles) Wright and Charity (Milton) Martin Lacey both of Columbia, MO, Brittany (Eric ) Martin Kennedy and Tiffany (Christopher) Martin McFadden both of Sumter, SC; one brother, John (Marilyn) Martin of Cedar Rapids, IA; seven sisters, Rose Jackson, Bonnie Seenster, Johnnie Jackson, Gwenda (Doug) Phillips, and Sandra Anding all of Waterloo, IA, Vivian (Howard) Anderson of Cedar Rapids, IA and Lenora (John) Wise of Three River, MI; former wife and caregiver, Hester Martin of Peoria, IL and 43 grandchildren, 30 great-great grandchildren, 9 great-great- great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, other family and friends who loved him. He is preceded in death by his wife, Charlene (King) Martin, his mother Allie B. (Steward) Anding, father, Elbert Reed, two sons, Johnnie “June” Cryer and Elbert “James” Cryer and four brothers, Joe Martin, Isaiah Martin, Richard Martin and Charles Martin. Funeral services will be held at 10 am on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at Sovereign Grace M.B. Church, with a visitation one- hour prior beginning at 9 am. Minister Samuel J. Rosario will officiate and Rev. Lorenzo Martin, pastor of The Word Church, Davenport, IA will bring the eulogy . Elbert will be laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery, Waterloo, IA on Monday, February 26, 2024. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at SimonsMortuary.com.

Tributes

Mr. Elbert "Al" Lee Martin

March 30, 1940 - February 3, 2024