Jeffrey Vincent Martin, 63, of Willis, Okla., passed away on December 29, 2022, at his home in Kingston. He was born on October 16, 1959, in Ada, Okla., to James Allen Martin and Shirley June Jenkins Martin.
Jeff graduated from Putnam City West High School in 1978 and went on to the University of Oklahoma where he received his bachelor’s degree in radio, television, and film. He volunteered for the United States Peace Corps from 1982 to 1985. Jeff returned to Denton, Texas where he attended Texas Woman’s University receiving his M.F.A. He married Colleen Carroll in 1991 and they lived in Dallas, Texas where they had two children: Jessie Ann in 1992 and Crawford Solomon in 1996.
Jeff taught photography and fine arts at the University of North Texas, the University of Texas at Dallas, the University of Texas at Arlington, and Dallas College. He was highly sought after by students and colleagues for his technical expertise in photography. As an artist, Jeff has various pieces of his artwork displayed in museums across the country.
After his divorce in 2005 he moved back to Willis, Okla., where he helped his father on the family ranch and obtained his Master Cattleman certification from Oklahoma State University. In his spare time, Jeff enjoyed working with and rebuilding computers, visiting museums and art galleries, watching movies, and listening to music. He loved spending time with his children and family whenever he could and will be missed dearly by many.
Jeff is survived by his mother, Shirley June Martin of Willis, Okla.; children: Crawford Solomon Martin of Dallas, Texas, Jessie Martin Bowen and husband Timothy of Allen, Texas; nephews: Vincent Reese Martin of Alpine, Texas, Joseph Andrew Martin of Dallas, Texas; and many cousins throughout Oklahoma and California.
Jeff was preceded in death by his father, James Allen Martin and brother, Justin Arnold Martin.
Casket bearers are Crawford Martin, Vincent Martin, Peter Mondo, Joseph Martin, Scott Davis, Timothy Bowen and Jessie Bowen.
A funeral service in his honor is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023, at the Willis Baptist Church.
Arrangements under the direction of Watts Funeral Home.