Nashville, TN, October 4, 2025
News Summary
Ralph Smith Martin, a cherished resident of Nashville and devoted Christian, has passed away at the age of 90. A long-time member of the Church of Christ, he leaves behind his daughters and grandchild. Ralph was known for his love of painting, outdoor walks, and devotion to his late wife, making a lasting impact on his family and community.
Nashville, TN – Ralph Smith Martin, Beloved Nashville Resident and Devoted Christian, Passes Away at Age 90
Ralph Smith Martin, age 90, of Nashville, TN, passed away on October 3, 2025, after a brief illness. He transitioned home at Alive Hospice following treatment at St. Thomas Midtown Hospital in Nashville, TN.
Born on January 28, 1935, in Hickman County, TN, Ralph was the sixth and youngest child of the late Willard Armstead Martin and Sallie Brown Smith Martin. He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Freeda Kathleen Martin, who passed away on April 26, 2013. Ralph is survived by his daughters, Debbie Powell and Teresa (Darren) Green, and his grandchild Ashley Powell.
Ralph was a devoted Christian who believed in reuniting with his late wife Kathleen in heaven. He graduated from Hickman County High School in 1953 and began his career at Genesco in Centerville, TN, where he met his future wife. Ralph married Kathleen in 1957 after two years of dating, and in 1958, they relocated to El Paso, Texas, where he was stationed in the U.S. Army. While in Texas, the couple enjoyed trips to Mexico, New Orleans, and other southeastern Texas towns.
After completing his military service, Ralph and Kathleen moved back to Nashville, TN, where they welcomed their first daughter, Debbie, in 1960 and their second daughter, Teresa, in 1963. Ralph worked for 25 years at Ferro Corporation and later finished his career at Whirlpool Corporation in La Vergne, TN.
A long-time member of the Church of Christ, Ralph was baptized at the age of 14 in 1949. He and his family were long-time members of Wingate Church of Christ, and he most recently attended Radnor Church of Christ. After retirement, Ralph indulged in painting numerous country scenery artworks and took daily walks outdoors. He frequently visited Gatlinburg, TN, and Panama City Beach, FL, to appreciate the beauty of God’s creation.
Ralph was an avid fan of the Nashville Predators and the Tennessee Titans, attending several games at Bridgestone Arena. Earlier in 2025, he celebrated his 90th birthday with a surprise luncheon surrounded by family and friends, highlighting the importance of family in his life.
At the time of his passing, Ralph maintained an independent lifestyle, living in his own home, driving, and walking several miles each day to support his well-being. He was known for his warm interactions, sense of humor, and ability to make others feel comfortable in his presence.
Ralph was preceded in death by his sisters: Alice Martin, Agnes Martin Harvill, Addie Brown Martin Totty, and brothers: Raymond Hillard Martin and Roy Leflet Martin. Arrangements are being handled by Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home & Memorial Park in Nashville, TN. A private graveside service will be held for family members only, as per Ralph’s wishes. For those wishing to honor his memory, donations may be made to Alive Hospice or to a charity of their choosing.
Throughout his life, Ralph’s character was defined by his simple, loving nature and deep faith in God.
FAQ
What was Ralph Smith Martin’s age at the time of his passing?
Ralph Smith Martin was 90 years old at the time of his passing.
When did Ralph Smith Martin pass away?
Ralph Smith Martin passed away on October 3, 2025.
Who did Ralph Smith Martin leave behind?
Ralph Smith Martin is survived by his daughters, Debbie Powell and Teresa (Darren) Green, and his grandchild Ashley Powell.
What was Ralph Smith Martin’s profession?
Ralph Smith Martin worked for 25 years with Ferro Corporation and later retired from Whirlpool Corporation in La Vergne, TN.
What were Ralph’s interests and hobbies?
Ralph enjoyed painting country scenery, taking daily walks outdoors, and was an avid fan of the Nashville Predators and the Tennessee Titans.
Where will Ralph Smith Martin be laid to rest?
A private graveside service will be held for family members only, as per Ralph’s wishes.
Key Features of Ralph Smith Martin’s Life
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Age at Passing | 90 |
| Date of Passing | October 3, 2025 |
| Survived by | Daughters: Debbie Powell, Teresa (Darren) Green; Grandchild: Ashley Powell |
| Profession | Worked 25 years at Ferro Corporation and retired from Whirlpool Corporation in La Vergne, TN |
| Hobbies | Painting, walking, fan of Nashville Predators and Tennessee Titans |
| Graveside Service | Private for family only |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Ralph Smith Martin
- Legacy: Randall Patterson Obituary
- Harpeth Hills: Jeffrey Potts
- Terrell Broady Funeral Home: Carlos Brown
- Williamson Memorial: Jennifer Thomas
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Google Search: Obituary
- Google Scholar: Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Google News: Obituary
Author: HERE Nashville
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