Clifford Ray Martin, 85, of Martintown passed away Sunday, October 16th surrounded by his family. He owned and ran Martin's Grocery for over 50 years. A steadfast Republican, he was always up for spirited political discussions for anyone willing. A lifelong lover of bluegrass music, and a talented musician himself, he loved to tell stories of his experiences in and around Southwest Virginia and of the many people he had met over the years.

He was preceded in death by his parents Dallas Martin and Martha Puckett Martin.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Nancy, daughter Myra Martin of Castlewood, VA, son Stephen Martin and wife Regina of Coeburn, VA, Stephanie Monk and husband C.W. Monk of Abingdon, VA, daughter Lori Martin of Bristol, TN,  grandsons Ryan Long and Haley Mays of Castlewood, Colton Long of Miami, FL, Evan Ramsey of Abingdon VA, great grandson Remy Long of Castlewood, special friend Larry Thompson of Fort Blackmore, VA and several cousins.

A graveside service will be held at Forest Hills Memory Gardens in Abingdon, Virginia, on Friday, October 21 ^st , 2 pm, with Darrell Milgrim officiating.  Pallbearers will be family and friends.