Willard Martin, of Abilene, Texas, passed into the loving arms of the Savior on February 11, 2025 at the age of 98 years, 7 months, 7days. Born on July 4, 1926, to Robert Henry and Lillie Mae (Thompson) Martin, Willard lived a long and strong life until an accidental fall two years before, which eventually took his health. Until his accident, even at the age of 96, you would find him doing his own yard work and tinkering with his vehicles. He wasn't one to sit still. Willard was the seventh born sibling of 10 children and spent his formative years on a farm, where his appointed job was caring for the family's cattle. He attended a small country school in Texas, Lilly Grove, until the age of 15, when an older brother convinced him to try his hand in the oil field. This began his 45 year career, where he quickly learned the terms: worm, roughneck, derrick man, tool pusher, and driller. During his career, he would also serve in each of these capacities. At age 15, he earned 99 cents an hour and after a year received a raise that promoted him to and even dollar! He worked both on and off shore for a dozen companies and in 4 states including Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and New Mexico. In years after retirement, he enjoyed farming and raising cattle. He especially took pride in raising very large bulls. His smaller pleasures included watching westerns and enjoying his side-table treats of Pepsi, Kit Kat Bars, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, and peppermint candies. He was sure to have extra for anyone who came visiting! A lot of history, a lot of experiences and accomplishments, laughter and tears occurred during his long, full life ... but the best in all of these happened when, at age 92, he said a simple prayer to trust Jesus as his Savior. What a long eternity he has to rejoice! Willard was preceded in death by his four oldest children's mother, Eunice; his youngest son's mother, JoDean; his step-daughters' mother, Phyllis; two sons, Willard (Jimmy) Martin, Jr., Henry Martin; a step-daughter, Angela Nash. He is survived by one sister, Lena Mae Quinney; two daughters, Joyce Switzer; Joleen Barger; son, Eddy Martin; two step-daughters, Michele Howard and Illyana Jantzen; many loving grand children, great- grandchildren, nieces and nephews. A memorial for Willard, along with family visitation and light refreshments, are planned for March 29, 2025, at North's Funeral Home, located at 242 Orange Street in Abilene, Texas, from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM.