Roy Arnold Martin

Roy Arnold Martin, 76, of Las Cruces, passed away peacefully at home on September 11, 2023, after a courage battle with cancer. Roy was born on August 18, 1947, to John and Eloise Martin in Silsbee, Texas. He graduated from Stephenville High School in 1965. Roy originally joined the Air Force in 1967 with a tour to Vietnam. He left the Air Force in 1971, returning to Dallas to join the Dallas Police Department then moving to the Richardson Police Department in 1977 as a Detective. He spent 11 years with the Texas Air National Guard before deciding to return to active duty in 1982. During his service time, Roy found the time to complete his associate degree in criminal justice, a bachelor's degree in psychology, and a master's degree in public administration. Roy served around the world, stationed in places like Germany, Honduras, South Korea, and multiple assignments in the U.S. Roy met his wife, Diana, in 1971 in Dallas, Texas, and were later married in 1977. They recently celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary. They welcomed into the world a baby girl in 1973. Travel was Roy's favorite pastime, traveling with Diana all around Europe and RVing across the United States. In 1999, Roy was medically retired from the Air Force and enjoyed serving his local community as a football coach and board member for Bantam Weight Sports Association. Roy especially enjoyed supporting his grandchildren in their many activities in Las Cruces. Roy was preceded in death by his mother, Eloise Risner Martin, father, John Martin, and stepmother, Joyce Martin. He is survived by his wife, Diana, daughter Tamisha Molenda, son-in-law Joel Molenda, and three grandchildren, Joel Jr. (Joey), Alexandria (Lexy), and Christian; two brothers, Johnny Martin and Eric Martin; a sister, Charlotte Shelton; and multiple nieces and nephews. Arrangements are being handled by Getz Funeral Home. A private service will be held for family at a later date.