Albert Martin

Mr. Albert Martin was born in Columbia, SC on June 7, 1946 to the late James and Clotell Martin. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Rudolph, Nathan, and Allen. He is survived by two sisters, Jean and Bobbi, and one brother, Johnny who all reside in Columbia, SC. The next feast that “Al” Martin prepares will be at the table of his Lord and Savior. He was 72 years young when his Heavenly Father called him to glory on Friday morning May 29th 2018 after having battled with esophageal cancer since 2016. “Al,” as he was lovingly called by his wife, Johnnie, family and friends, was educated in the Richland County Public School system in Columbia, SC. He graduated high school in 1963 and attended State College. He was a Trombone player in the college’s marching band. After one year, he transferred to Benedict College in 1967 and earned a degree in both Chemistry and Mathematics. After college, he taught Mathematics at Dent High School in Columbia, SC. Al left the classroom and went to Indiana University for his Post Graduate Studies. He was offered an opportunity to begin his career as a Chemist at Dow Chemicals in Atlanta, GA where he worked for two years before being offered an opportunity to join a Textile Company in Greenville, SC. While at this company, Al helped to developed/created what are considered his greatest accomplishments in his 40 plus year Chemical Career. Spray & Wash Fabric Spray as well Fantastik Cleaner were parts of his Great Works and Accomplishments. While working in Greenville, Al met and married his soul-mate, Johnnie Mae who was also working at another Textile Company. Al and Johnnie Mae married in May of 1974 and were relocated to Louisville, KY in June of 1974 due to Al having been offered an opportunity to join another chemical company. They lived in Louisville, KY from 1973 to 1986 when they relocated with their two sons to Chesapeake, VA. Al was an avid fisherman, gardener, and upon retiring from Chemistry in the early 2000s he took his love and passion for cooking to a new level, he was named the Virginian-Pilot’s July 2010 Everyday Chef. He spent his retirement years doing cooking exhibits and hosting fine dining dinner parties. His bistro style meals were cherished by anyone he invited to his dining room or chef’s table. His culinary talents have been featured in regional newspapers and magazines. He was a highly respected judge of cooking contests, and he was featured at cooking exhibits in North Carolina and Coastal Virginia. Al will be remembered as the Chemist who became a chef of the stars. A list that includes Gerald Albright, Jonathan Slocum, Karen White, Vivica Fox, Brian McKnight, and Peabo Bryson just to name a few. Al leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife and partner of 44 years Johnnie Mae; his sons and their spouses, Doug “Burky” (Kimberly) and Tavon (Lisa); grandchildren: Shawn, Dougie, Shane, Donavon, Kaylee, Brooklyn two great-grandchildren: Lil Shawn, Isla, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Albert Martin

June 7, 1946 - June 29, 2018