Fairlea-Joy Anne Martin passed away unexpectedly on Friday, Oct. 18, 2013. Born Apr. 27, 1950, at Ronceverte, she was the daughter of the late Alex and Ruth West Freeman. For 24 years, Joy worked in the personnel department of The Greenbrier hotel as the insurance benefits coordinator. She took care of the employees and their families above and beyond the call of duty. Peggy Clements worked with Joy and, after they retired, she and Joy made multiple trips each year to Dollywood to see the Kingdom Heirs and listen to southern gospel music. Most of all, Joy was passionate about helping others, whether it was family, friends or total strangers. For many years, she helped relocate abused women and children, moving them during the night to a safe house in another state. She is survived by: her husband, John C. Martin; and their girl, Mia, of Fairlea; the love of her life, her son, Russell Williams (Judy) of Greensboro, NC; her brothers, Bill Freeman (Emma) of Lewisburg and David Freeman (Susan) of Stoneville, NC; and sister, Terry Baker (Danny) of Lewisburg. She dearly loved her nephews, Mike Freeman (Kelly), Authur Freeman (Shaunda) and Britton Baker and anyone who ever met her, knew that she loved her nephew, Chris Baker, best; just as he loved her best. Her grandnephews, Tyler and Logan Freeman, and Shaua Freeman, and grandnieces, Dakota and Peyton Freeman, were so special to her. A memorial service was held to celebrate Joy’s life and the joy she brought to others on Tuesday, Oct. 22 at the Memorial Chapel of McCraw Funeral Home in Lewisburg. In honor of her giving nature, we, as her family, are asking that in lieu of flowers, make donations to CYAC (Child and Youth Advocacy Center), 212 West Washington Street, Lewisburg, WV 24901. McCraw Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
