It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Don Edward Martin, affectionately known to many as Donny, on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at CHI St. Vincent Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was 71 years old.

Don was born on December 27, 1954, at Hot Springs County Hospital in Malvern, Arkansas to Benjamin James “BJ” Martin and Maxine Callahan Martin. He spent his early childhood in Traskwood, Arkansas, before his family moved to Benton. He graduated from Benton High School in 1972 and then went on to attend the University of Arkansas, earning a degree in engineering. Don enjoyed a long and successful career as a civil engineer, working in both the public and private sectors before retiring at the age of 70.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin James “BJ” Martin and Maxine Callahan Martin.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Laurie Martin; his children, Ben Martin, Maggie Gocio, and Tom Martin; his grandchildren, Gabrielle Martin, Genevieve Martin, Samuel Martin, and Martin Gocio; and his brothers, Benny Martin and Stephen Martin.

Beyond his many professional accomplishments, Don found his greatest joy in the life he shared with those he loved. He cherished traveling and dancing with his wife, spending time on the golf course, playing Canasta with his children, and gathering his grandchildren onto his lap to tell them stories.

Don loved unconditionally. A man of extraordinary character, his life was defined by kindness, empathy, respect, and an unwavering devotion to his family. He was loyal, generous, and steadfast in his love, leading by example through the way he lived and treated others. To know Don was to know a truly good man. Though his passing leaves an absence that can never be filled, his love and wisdom has taken root in the hearts of his family, destined to grow and bloom for generations to come.

The family invites all who knew and loved Don to join them in celebrating his life at a visitation on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas.