Preston Rade Martin

Preston Rade Martin, age 93 of Cumming, GA passed away on Saturday, December 7, 2024. He was born on March 22, 1931, to Paul T. and Grace Martin. 

 Preston was a lifelong resident of Forsyth County and a member of Friendship Baptist Church. He worked at Southern Bell/BellSouth for 30 years and retired when he was 50 years old. Preston also served on the Board of Directors at Sawnee EMC and represented district #6 for 45 years. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, and working outside.

 Preston is survived by his daughter Anita Watson (Buddy), son in law Bobby Gravitt (Donna), grandchildren Josh Gravitt (Nancy), John Paul Gravitt (Brigitte), Brandi Watson (Jacob), Derek Watson (Britney), 10 great grandchildren (Preston, Daisy, Charlotte, Reese, Brooks, Ezra, Claire, Aaron, Parker, Noah), sister Margaret Martin and sister-in-law Betty Sue Chadwick. Many nephews, nieces, and other relatives also survive.

 Preston was preceded in death by his wife of 73 years, Betty Chadwick Martin, his parents, Paul T., and Grace Martin; son David Martin, daughter Debbie Gravitt, sister Bernice (Hoyt) Mills, brothers and sister in laws, James Chadwick (Inez), B.J. Chadwick Jr., Virgina Roper (Talmadge), and Maurice Martin, and his infant granddaughters Amanda and Leslie Gravitt.

Services to honor the life of Mr. Preston Rade Martin will be Friday December 13, 2024, at 2:00 PM in the chapel with Rev. Ricky Byrd and Rev. Lee Gaddis officiating, he will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife at the Sawnee View Gardens; the following gentlemen are honored to serve as pallbearers, Derek Watson, Jacob Watson, Josh Gravitt, John Gravitt and Preston Gravitt. Visitation will be Thursday December 12, 2024, from 9:00 AM- 11:00 AM and from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM and Friday from 12:00 until the service hour.