Carol Copley Martin

She was born in Bluefield, Virginia where she built a life filled with love and joy. Carol graduated from Graham High School in 1960. She attended Bluefield College where she met her sweetheart of 63 years, Ray Earl Martin, in the fall of 1961. The two were married on June 9th, 1963.

Carol Ruth was a devoted friend and family woman. She was known in her community as a friend who always showed up for those she loved, especially with handwritten notes. Carol had remarkable hosting skills, opening her home and providing a safe place for whoever entered her doors. Her husband, Ray, remembers her as a voice of reason over his life, as well as the person who always stood by his side and helped him, no matter what. Carol was an encourager who helped Ray never quit on the dreams he had for himself and their family.

Professionally, Carol was the office manager of Schnabel Engineering Associates from 1975 until 1992. Following this, she owned and operated the Henry Clay Inn in Ashland from 1992 to 2014. She was a member of Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church beginning in 1974 through her death. As a part of her involvement at Duncan Memorial, she drove the Share-Mobile, which distributed books from Pamunkey Regional Library to children unable to attend paid kindergarten. Carol enjoyed fellowship while serving on the altar guild, teaching Sunday school, and in many other capacities.

Carol is survived by her husband Ray E. Martin, children Timothy R. Martin (Eileen), Ann-Carol M. Houston (Clift), Susan E. Sillmon (Kenny), Frank T. Straus, and her brother Don C. Copley. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Mariah M. Kennedy, Ryan E. Martin, Nathanael R. Houston, Anna-Laura M. Houston, and Julia B. Sillmon. She is preceded in death by her father and mother, Clyde E. and Lillian B. Copley, as well as her sister Patricia A. O’Dell.

A memorial service will be held for Carol on August 29th, 2026 at Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church at 2pm. Reverend Nilse Furtado-Gilliam of Duncan Memorial, Reverend Kendra Grimes (Chaplain at RMC), and Reverend Frank Goare of Hunton Baptist Church will be honoring Carol at her memorial.

Carol will be remembered for her smile, quick wit, determination, generous spirit, and ability to love quickly and deeply. She will be greatly missed by all.