Wilbur Baine Martin, Jr. (1937-2024) passed away peacefully on May 25th, 2024, at age 87 while surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren after a brief battle with cancer.

Baine, known for his strength and wisdom, died as he lived–with dignity and a sense of humor. Independent and strong willed, he often remarked, "I've never been 87 before, so I guess I feel like any 87-year-old should."

Born on January 19, 1937, to Wilbur Baine Martin, Sr. and Elizabeth Brown Martin, Baine attended Central High School, as well as Tulane University and NC State University, where he majored in textile engineering. A renaissance man, Baine explored various careers. His first
career was in textiles, and during this period he was an executive with Burlington Industries, Phillips 66, MacAndrews and Forbes, and Shadowline. Upon moving to Boone with his family in 1981, he began a new career in real estate. He and his wife later opened their own real estate office, Martin Real Estate, which they operated together for many years. He was a talented businessman and enjoyed his many years selling real estate until his retirement.

In addition to working in textiles and real estate, Baine also raised and sold Christmas trees on the side. In his free time, Baine enjoyed working on vintage cars, collecting antiques, restoring antique furniture, reading, and riding his lawnmower. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Carol; a loving father to his 4 children; and a proud grandfather to 15 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Baine's first encounter with his wife was love at first sight. His relationship with Carol, whom he called "the girl of his dreams," began the day that they met. Carol was filling in as a secretary at Baine's place of employment and, upon seeing her, he sat down on the edge of her
desk, struck up a conversation, and asked her on a date before their conversation had ended. They have been together for over six decades and have been an exceptional example of what it means to be in a loving, respectful, and enduring relationship. Baine was a wonderful father who lived out the adage "actions speak louder than words." He taught life lessons through the way that he lived.

He was honest, hardworking, generous with his resources and wisdom and was faithful to his family and friends. He taught his children the value of hard work, striving for excellence, treating others as you would like to be treated, and was always quick to offer his assistance whenever a need arose.

Known as "Papa" to his grandchildren, Baine was a strong and steadfast presence in the lives of his 15 grandchildren. He planned and hosted events that brought his family together, like "The Martin Olympics," cookouts, and beach trips, as well as light-hearted poker sessions
(teaching "when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em!"). He was a generous man, always willing to share his time, experiences, and wealth of knowledge. He imparted his strong work ethic to his grandchildren and taught them valuable life skills that included economic lessons, boat and
fishing tutorials, and gun safety and wilderness training. He was always the example of a good, fun-loving, and godly person.

Baine is survived by his wife, Carol Ray; children, Baine Martin III, Laura Himler (Scott), Kate Jones (Derrick), and Barbara Cassada (Chuck); grandchildren, Kathryn Ward, Tanner Martin, Caleb Martin, Dalton Hardee, Lindley Jones, Baine Martin IV, Ryann Jones, Cal Hardee,
Kasey Jones, David Martin, Tyler Jones, Callie Martin, Nate Cassada, Drew Cassada, and Hannah Martin; and great grandchildren, Layla, Sloane, Emerson, JJ, Kellen, Marshall, Nolan, Ivy, Mallie, Miles, and Zoey. He was preceded in death by his sister, Elizabeth "Bunny" Eaves.
brother, Mike Martin; and brother-in-law, Phil Eaves.

While he will be dearly missed, Baine will always be remembered for his wisdom, kindness, and unwavering love for his family. He made each of us feel as though there were only one of us.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the following: Mount Vernon Baptist Church Lottie Moon Fund, 3505 Bamboo Rd, Boone, NC 28607; Mike Martin Foundation, Capital City Bank, 6691 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32312.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.