Elizabeth "Liz" Martin's Obituary
Elizabeth "Liz" Holmes Martin was born on March 19, 1941, in Lobeco, South Carolina, to Charles and Sadie Holmes. At the age of six, she relocated with her family to San Francisco, California. Liz was baptized and accepted Christ at an early age and remained active in her faith throughout her life. She attended Galilee Missionary Baptist Church until adulthood and graduated from Mission High School in 1959.
Shortly after graduating, Liz began her career with the federal government while also embarking on her journey into motherhood. She was blessed with the birth of her son, Travis, in 1960, and her daughter, Cheryl, in 1964. Her life changed forever when she married Thomas Martin on June 14, 1968. Their union brought together a loving family that included their children Sheldon, Travis, and Cheryl. The family grew even more with the births of Chariss and Katrina, filling their home with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Marriage to a career serviceman also allowed Liz to nurture her love of travel. Shortly after their marriage, the family relocated to Washington State and later moved to Fort Hood, Texas. During their time there, Liz and her daughter, Chariss, were involved in a tragic automobile accident that left Liz with lifelong injuries and claimed the life of young Chariss. Following this devastating loss, the family relocated to Amberg, Germany. They returned to Killeen, Texas, in 1977, where they established their permanent home. Liz then joined Anderson Chapel AME Church. She faithfully served on the Usher Board until declining health limited her ability to do so. Determined to continue serving the Lord, she later became an active member of the Missionary Society. Throughout her family's travels and transitions, Liz remained dedicated to her work with the federal government, serving faithfully until her retirement in 1997.
In 2003, Liz discovered a new passion—cruising. The only thing she loved more than traveling to new destinations was doing so aboard a floating hotel complete with 24-hour dining and a casino. She and her dear friend Betty shared a love for cruising and spent many wonderful years exploring the seas together with Betty's family, creating countless cherished memories along the way.
Liz was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend. Kind, humble, and generous, she never wanted anyone around her to go hungry and was always willing to open her home to those in need. She also knew how to enjoy life. Liz loved music, playing spades and dominoes, calling out "BINGO," and spending hours at the casino. Her adventurous spirit remained strong throughout her life, and she enjoyed her final trip in May 2026.
On Friday, June 26, 2026, Elizabeth Holmes Martin gained her heavenly wings at the age of 85. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas Martin; her parents, Charles Holmes, Sr., and Sadie Shields; her brothers, Richard Ford and Charles Holmes, Jr.; her sisters, Ella L. Nobles and Rosetta Gilbert; and her children, Chariss Martin, Sheldon Martin, and Travis Martin.
Liz leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Cheryl Stephens and Katrina Stevens (Terrence); her grandchildren, Victoria Cunningham, Travis Martin, Jr., Asha Martin, Andre Martin (Tiffany), Diamond Stevens, and Terrence Stevens II; her great-granddaughter, Eliza Cunningham; her sister, Charlene Amerson (Aaron); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, church family members, and dear friends.
Her legacy of faith, resilience, generosity, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
What’s your fondest memory of Liz?
What’s a lesson you learned from Liz?
Share a story where Liz's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Liz you’ll never forget.
How did Liz make you smile?