Douglas Wayne Martin, Sr.

Douglas Wayne Martin, Sr., 61, of Newport and Apex, North Carolina, was born on December 21, 1964, in Richmond, Virginia, to the late Sarah Catherine Chambers and Danie Dale Martin. He departed this life to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 11, 2026.

Doug is survived by his loving wife, Laura Truelove of Raleigh; his three children, whom he adored: Sarah “Bearah” Hackman (Josh) of Charlotte, Samantha “Pickle” King (Kris) of Apex, and Douglas Wayne Martin, Jr. “Pookie” of Durham. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to three precious grandchildren who were the light of his life—Mila, age 4; Drew, age 2; and Kayleigh, age 1.

He is also survived by his siblings: Wendy Martin-Johnson (Ron) of Fredericksburg, VA; Lisa Chambers Thomas of Durham, NC; and Tammy Renee Perry of Creedmoor, NC; his nephews Bryce, Chase, Frederick, and Bryson; and his niece Brooklyn. He is lovingly remembered by many dear aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends whom he loved so much.

Doug was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Sarah Chambers; his father, Danie Martin; his cherished granny, Sarah Parham; his aunts Estelle Hogan, Paulette McFalls, and Christine Thompson; and two cousins, David Thompson and Timmy Boone.

Doug proudly served his country in the United States Army and later dedicated 28 years of faithful service to AT&T. During his career, he formed a lifelong bond with his best friend, Steven Keith “Chili Dawg” Clifton, whom he considered his brother.

A man of deep faith, Doug attended Immanuel Free Will Baptist Church for many years with his mother and aunts. Sundays were especially meaningful to him, as he looked forward to seeing them and sitting beside his mom. As many fondly remember, Doug was proudly known as his mother’s “favorite son,” a title she loved to remind him of often.

Doug was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, nephew, uncle, and friend. His family was his whole world, and he adored his children and grandchildren beyond measure. He loved cooking and making everything from scratch. His favorite things to bake were biscuits, chocolate chip cookies, chocolate chess pie, and cakes. Sharing food was one of the many ways he showed love.

He also enjoyed golfing, watching sunsets at the beach, spending time with his dogs, and relaxing while watching nature and game shows.

Doug was a Christian who knew and loved the Lord and was saved. He shared that he eagerly looked forward to being reunited with his mother in Heaven. Those who know Doug can imagine that joyful moment when she runs to him and says, “There’s my favorite son, Doug! I’ve been waiting for you!”

A funeral service will be held on February 21, 2026, at Hudson Funeral Home, 211 S. Miami Blvd., Durham, NC 27703, with Rev. Jim Turnbough officiating. A visitation will be held from 12:30 - 2:00 PM, followed by a service from 2:00 to 3:00 PM at Hudson Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial donations be made to Immanuel Free Will Baptist Church in Durham, North Carolina.

Psalm 23

The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures.

He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul:

He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His Name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil: for Thou Art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:

Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.