Mr. William Sammy \"Sam\" Martin, Sr., age 86, of Wallace died Friday, September 23, 2011 at the Brian Center of Wallace. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Faye Tew Martin, of the home, two sons, William Sammy (Bill) Martin, Jr. and wife Patricia of Fayetteville, NC and Christopher C. Martin, Sr. and wife Cathy of Wilmington, four grandchildren, Whitney Brooke Martin Crandall and husband Paul, Christopher C. Martin, Jr. and wife Laurel, Sarah Langley and husband Travis and Emily Freeza and husband Dan, one sister, Patsy Batts and one brother, Doug Martin. Born September 9, 1925 in Duplin County, Mr. Martin was the son of the late Lee and Sadie Wagstaff Martin. He graduated from Kenansville High School at the age of 17, joined the US Navy and served on the USS Stafford on the Pacific Ocean during World War II. He was raised by his aunt Rosa and uncle James Hall. He was strong energetic, quick witted, loved fishing, wood working and electric trains. He was preceded in death by a sister, Esther Kennedy and a brother, Forest Martin.