Inez “Gom” Byrge Martin
Inez “Gom” Byrge Martin, 87, of Kingston passed away peacefully on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025, at Jamestowne Assisted Living. She was born March 22, 1937, in Devonia and was a member of First Baptist Church in Kingston.
She previously worked as a church secretary for both First Baptist Church in Clinton and Kingston United Methodist Church. She also served on the board of directors for the Children’s Theatre in Kingston.
Gom loved trips to the beach, especially early morning walks searching for shark teeth. She also enjoyed scrapbooking, cooking and hosting family gatherings at her home.
When asked about the most-special times in her life, she would say it was caring for her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she loved unconditionally. In past years, she could often be found at Kingston Elementary School, sitting in the hallway listening to children read.
Gom was a woman of elegance and integrity, teaching her children and grandchildren proper etiquette. She was also an avid University of Tennessee fan.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 39 years, Kermit LeRoy Martin; parents, Kelly and Almeda Patterson Byrge; and siblings, Reba, Wilma, Glenn, Norris, Curtis, and Russell Byrge Jr.
She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Michael and Wendy Martin of Kingston and Marty and Pam Martin of Smyrna; grandchildren, Alex, Matty, Andrew, and Austin Martin; and great-grandchildren, Noaa, Ellis, Parker, and Spencer.
She also leaves behind special friends Clarice VanCleve, Karen Woody and Glenda Marlowe, all of Kingston.
The family received friends from 5 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, at Fraker Funeral Home. The funeral followed at 6 p.m. in the chapel, officiated by Dr. Phillip Martin.
Family and friends met at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025, at Sunset Cemetery in Clinton for the graveside service.
An online register book is available at frakerfuneralhome.net.
Fraker Funeral Home of Kingston is in charge of arrangements.
