Martin Ray Jones

Martin Ray Jones, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed from this earthly life to meet his Lord on March 12, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 29, 1964, in Seiling, Oklahoma, to Charles Ray Jones and Norma Norene (Goodman) Jones. During his early years, Martin’s family moved frequently as his father pursued career opportunities. These experiences helped shape Martin into an outgoing young man who could make friends wherever he went. The family later welcomed two younger sons, Glynn and Bryan, and Martin proudly embraced his lifelong role as their big brother — a role he carried with love and dedication throughout his life.

Martin’s school years were filled with FFA, 4H, motorcycle riding and hunting and fishing whenever ever he could and times when he shouldn’t have been. All members of the Jones family participated in those activities, leading to fierce competition between the brothers that usually ended with Pa breaking it up. Many weekends were spent at the lake or camping. Martin graduated from Sharon-Mutual in 1982, having made many lifelong friends.

In 1984 Martin met the love of his life, Mary Jane Christie at the Colorado Camp Meetings, later marrying on September 14th, 1985. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work. They were blessed with two children, Courtney and Hunter, whom Martin loved dearly and took great pride in raising. He enjoyed spending time outdoors with his family, sharing in the activities that his parents had introduced to him.

Martin believed in teaching his children the value of hard work and practical skills that would stay with them for life. He enjoyed woodworking and was known for his meticulous carpentry skills and attention to detail. He also loved riding motorcycles, attending bow shoots with friends, and trying new hobbies, like metal detecting, hoping to discover a hidden treasure.

Martin was a man of strong faith. Later in life at the age of 42, he dedicated himself to serving God and was baptized into the General Assembly and Church of the First Born alongside several loved ones, including his daughter Courtney, making it a day of great joy and celebration. His love for his church family and fellow believers was genuine, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand wherever needed.

Martin also proudly served his community as a volunteer firefighter at Mutal Fire Department and Vici Fire Department. After 21 years of service, he retired, leaving a lasting legacy for future firefighters.

As the years passed, Martin found great joy in watching his family grow. He went from Dad to Pop Pop, a title that meant the world to him. He was a proud grandfather to 3 beloved grandchildren — Abram, Auggie, and Millie — each of whom brought light and laughter into his life. The grandchildren were not immune to his orneriness, using his “Goat” to give the babies crazy hair. He treasured family trips to the beach, retro arcades, traveling adventures across the country and dinners where everyone was full of good food and laughter.

Though life brought its share of hardships and loss, Martin remained grounded in his faith and surrounded by the love of family and friends. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the memories he leaves behind.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Norma Jones. Father-in-law and mother-in-law Martin and Carol Christie. And granddaughter Olivia Payton.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jane; his children, Courtney Payton and husband Shane; son Hunter Jones and wife Kylan; his cherished grandchildren Abram Payton, August Payton, and Millie Jones; brothers Glynn Jones and wife Samantha; Bryan Jones and wife Angela; and many extended family members and dear friends.

Martin’s work on this earth is done. He now rests high on the mountain, at peace in the presence of his Lord.