James Martin

James E. Martin (Jim) passed away peacefully in his home on December 3, 2024 at the age of 77. He was born on December 19, 1946 in Pasadena, California to Clyde and Lucile Martin and was the youngest of four children.

When Jim was in 4th grade he developed an interest in music and began playing the trumpet. This led to a lifelong passion for music, and later a professional career as a trumpet player and music educator.

When Jim was 19 years old he served a two year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to Belfast, Ireland. After his LDS mission, Jim received a Bachelor of Arts in Music from California State University and a Master of Arts in Education from The United States International University. While at college he met his beloved wife Jacquelyn Marshall (Jacquie). They were married on May 20, 1972 at Saint Rita's Catholic Church, and then later sealed in the Logan LDS Temple on May 20, 1983. Two years ago Jim and Jacquie celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary! Jim loved writing Jacquie homemade "Roses are Red" poems and dancing with her to their favorite songs. During Jim and Jacquie's early married years they enjoyed many activities together, including participating in a bowling league and doubles tennis team, and taking frequent bike rides down to Huntington Beach.

In 1980 they moved to Lake Forest, California where they welcomed their first child, Jordan, and a year later their daughter, Janeen. Jim was a devoted father and loved spending time with his family- camping, walking the rocks at Corona Del Mar, going on bike rides, and creating a family band to carol to the neighbors at Christmastime. Jim taught both of his children piano, and instilled in them his deep appreciation for music.

Jim treasured his years teaching band, orchestra and choir at Sowers Middle School in Huntington Beach, CA and Pine View Middle School in Saint George, UT. He had a gift for playing any instrument put in his hands, and especially enjoyed taking the students to perform in parades around the State. When he retired he had been a music educator for a total of 43 years! Jim was an accomplished trumpeter, playing in several city and state bands throughout his youth and being awarded numerous honors of outstanding merit. As an adult he performed at many venues including the Rose Parade, The Church of The Angels, and Tuachan, and was a part of several local orchestras and big bands. He also played the piano for the Primary in his church congregation for over 30 years.

Jim had an infectious laugh and loved to have fun. He spent his free time playing tennis and golf as often as he could with family and friends. He was dedicated to his family and leaves a lasting legacy with the innumerable music students he inspired through the years.

Jim is survived by his wife Jacquie, children Jordan (Crystal) and Janeen, four grandchildren Sierra, Kaiden, Addison and Jordynn, and one great-grandson Siris. He is also survived by his sister Clydene. Jim is preceded in death by his parents Clyde and Lucile, and siblings LuDawn and Garry.

Visitation will be held at the St. James LDS chapel (1095 St James Ln, St. George, UT 84790)  from 10:30-11:30 am on Friday, December 13, immediately followed by funeral services at 12:00 pm and a graveside service at Tonaquint Cemetery

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary. Condolences and Memories can be shared with the family online at www.Spilsburymortuary.com