Janelle Martin

Janelle H. Martin, age 99, of Rison died Monday, May 4, 2026. She was born September 13, 1926, in Calmer, Arkansas, the daughter of the late Robert Floyd and Florence Berry Henderson.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband Roy Martin, her son Les Martin, her brother Russell Henderson, and her sisters Eva Broach and Louise Phillips. She is survived by her son Dr. Ken Martin and his wife Susan of Maumelle; four grandchildren, Dr. Laura Martin and her husband David Lau of Santa Cruz, CA, Drs. Anna and Michael Kendrick of Little Rock, Mary Susan and Dr. Wesley Williams of Lucas, TX and Drew and Monique Martin of Little Rock; and eight great-grandchildren, Carlos Martin Lau, Luca Martin Lau, Vera Kendrick, Madelyn Williams, Wyatt Williams, Walker Williams, Kenneth Martin and Evie Martin. She is also survived by her devoted sister Gloria Fay Johnston of Rison and a host of dear extended family members.

Mrs. Martin graduated from Woodlawn High School in 1945 and moved to Rison to work for the Cleveland County AAA Office. Soon after his return from World War II, Roy spotted Janelle in a bright yellow dress at a courthouse function and always said she was the prettiest girl he ever saw. They married August 2, 1946, and enjoyed 56 years together until his death in 2003.

Mrs. Martin joined Roy as a member of Bethel #1 Missionary Baptist Church of Rison. At her death, she was the oldest and longest tenured member of the congregation. Mrs. Martin faithfully served the church in many capacities over the years. She taught Sunday School, led Vacation Bible School, and provided innumerable meals for church events.

Mrs. Martin was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star of the State of Arkansas, serving as an officer in her local chapter as well as at the State level, including serving as Grand Esther. She and Roy cherished their many adventures with their Eastern Star friends, traveling to Israel, Egypt, Australia, New Zealand and Europe.

Her family will be forever grateful to Gwen Henry for her faithful and loving care, especially over these last few years. She was also blessed to be under the care of the employees of The Green House Cottages of Southern Hills and Arkansas Hospice, who, together with extended family, church family and friends, made it possible for her to spend her last years in her beloved hometown of Rison.

Memorials may be made to the Bethel #1 Missionary Baptist Church of Rison, P.O. Box 370, Rison, AR 71665.