Ernest Gerald Martin, 68, of 797 Old Metal Road, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 9, 2008, at his residence after an extended battle with cancer.

Born in Gaffney, he was the husband of Betty Helton Martin and son of the late Jim D. Martin and Alsie (Sis) Orr Martin. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and was retired from Hoechst Celanese. Mr. Martin was a member of New Pleasant Baptist Church.

Also surviving are a son, Randal Gerald Martin of Wilmington, N.C., and a brother, Jimmie Lee Martin and wife, Freda, of Cowpens.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Joe Edward Martin.

A private graveside service will be held by the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorials be made to CHAPS (Cherokee Historical and Preservation Society), 301 S. Johnson St., Gaffney, S.C. 29340.

Family members are at their respective homes.

An online guest register is available at www.blakelyfuneralhome. com.