Sarah A. Martin

Sarah Ann Martin was born on January 22, 1933 in Lithonia, Georgia to the late Gus Kilgore, Sr. and Ozelyer Kilgore. The Lord called her home on Saturday, January 22, 2022. Sarah attended the first African American school in the DeKalb County School System. Early on in her youth she worked at a laundromat; and later worked as a cook for the Dekalb County School System until her retirement. Within the duration of her life, she achieved and received a certificate of arts in customs, where she mastered custom draperies, cascades, swags, lamp shades and cornices. This would deem her as a skilled seamstress. Sarah loved cooking and had a passion for people which led to her continuous involvement to serve in various events in the community. Her contribution to serve and spiritual life was overwhelming and impacted many. Sarah married her childhood sweetheart Jessie Bowen Martin and together they reared 6 beautiful children. She was a faithful servant and pledged her services to the ministry at Moses Tabernacle Free Church of God Christ. Later, she and Bishop Martin were led to Warren County Georgia where they planted what is formerly known as Martin Tabernacle Church and they lead the ministry for 41 years. She stood by her husband as the ministry grew and blossomed, and together they established four other churches. She was filled with love, humility, understanding, kindness, and a strong spiritual insight which was contagious. One of her favorite songs was, “If I Couldn’t Say a Word,” and words really could not describe her beauty. Sarah Ann was preceded in death by her husband Bishop Jessie B. Martin, daughter Evangelist Sevonzell Walker, two grandson’s -Elder Eric Dawson and Minister Antiowne Walker, granddaughter Vanessa Martin, sister- Mary Anderson, three brothers – Deacon Judge Kilgore, Pastor William Kilgore, Bishop Gus Kilgore, and a son-in-law Bishop Bruce Davis. Sarah Martin, is survived by 5 Children, Hollywood Smith Jr. of Lithonia, GA, Barbara J. Dawson (Eddie) of Warrenton, GA, Vickey Walker (Charlie) of Warrenton, GA, Gwendolyn Davis of Milledgeville, GA, Jessie V. Martin (Tamika) of Conyers, GA; sisters - Ida B. Hawk, Revella Moses (Willie), Ozelyer Jackson of Lithonia, GA, Genetha Woods (Anthony) of Loganville, GA, brother- Isaac Kilgore (Bernice) of Lithonia, GA, sister-in-law: Joann Kilgore of Eatonton GA; 11 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, 9 great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

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Sarah A. Martin

January 22, 1933 - January 22, 2022