Eugene Martin
Granite City | Save
Eugene L. Martin, 89, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away with a broken heart at 7:07 p.m. on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at his home, where he peacefully went to be reunited with the love of his life in Heaven.
He was born on February 17, 1937, in Madison, Illinois, a son of the late Harvey LeRoy and Alfa (Kohensky) Martin. On June 18, 1965, he married Patricia R. "Patsy" (McIlvoy) Martin in Madison, Illinois. Together they shared 62 years of unwavering love, devotion, and cherished memories until her passing on July 12, 2026. Their love was an inspiration to all who knew them, and after only one week apart, Gene's heart longed to be with his beloved Patsy once again.
Gene retired from National Steel after more than 30 years of dedicated service. A proud veteran of the United States Army, he faithfully served his country with honor and carried that same spirit of dedication throughout his life.
He was a devoted member of Calvary Life Church in Granite City, where his faith was a guiding force. He deeply cherished Pastor Mark Maynard and his church family, finding strength, friendship, and fellowship among them.
Gene had a lifelong passion for raising and showing beagles, spending countless hours attending field trials throughout the years. As a longtime championship member of the National Beagle Association, he earned numerous awards and trophies, taking great pride in the dogs he trained and the friendships he made along the way.
He also enjoyed dancing, fishing, dirt track racing, cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals, and sharing a simple cup of coffee with family and friends. More than anything, Gene treasured time spent with those he loved. Whether attending a ballgame, celebrating a milestone, or simply gathering together, he was always there for his children and grandchildren, offering encouragement, wisdom, laughter, and unconditional love. His gentle heart, quiet strength, and steadfast devotion to his family will be remembered forever.
He is survived by his son, Donald Martin and his girlfriend, Jeannie Metcalf; his son, Kevin Byars; his daughter, Diana and her husband, Robert "Bob" Jurasevich; grandchildren, Lindsay (Jeremy) Garner, Whitney (Spencer) Johnson, McKenzie Martin, Jacob Jurasevich, Sara Jurasevich, Julie Magurany, David Martin, and Ashley Martin; great-grandchildren, Madyson, Drake, Katelyn, Jakob, Olivia, and Kaia; his sister, Glenda Cohen; nieces and nephew, Lisa Pellazari, Judi Jenkins, and Darrell Pellazari; many other extended family members, treasured friends, and his loving church family.
In addition to his beloved wife, Patsy, and his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, David Martin; and his siblings, Louise McClanahan, Jerry Nelson, Shirley Turner, Judy Perryman, Ona Holman, and Johnny Pellazari.
In celebration of his life, visitation will be held at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City, on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12:00 noon with Reverend Mark Maynard officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon.
Memorials may be made to Calvary Life Church. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.irwinchapel.com.
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home
