David King Martin, 63, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday evening, September 1st, 2024, at his home in Laurel, MD. Born on April 2nd, 1961, in Atlantic City, NJ, to Willie Martin Sr. and Lottie Bell Turner. David lived a life filled with love for his family and a deep dedication to his faith. The youngest son of seven siblings, David, though known for his independent personality, carried on the family tradition of athletic excellence. He attended New Jersey City University on a basketball scholarship, where he served as team captain and led his team to multiple state championships.

During his time at college, David met Joyce Henderson, his college sweetheart and the captain of the cheerleading squad at NJCU. In February 1983, they welcomed their new bundle of joy LaShawna (affectionately known as "Shawn Dew"). As a proud new father, David turned down the chance to play professional basketball overseas, opting instead to stay close to home and accepted a coaching position at Ramapo State College. Alongside his brother Willie, he also coached the "Brown Brothers" of Lakewood, NJ, eventually becoming the Director of the League after leading the team to numerous championships.

While David grew up in the church and often leaned on prayer during everyday life , especially throughout his basketball career, David became fully committed to his faith as a young adult. David started in community outreach, encouraging others to give their lives to Christ. Which ultimately lead him to start the infamous weekly Sunday family zooms and most recently midweek family prayer. No matter what, David always had a scripture for encouragement.

Post basketball David started in construction and as a counselor at New Jersey Juvenile Detention Centers, but his love for cooking blossomed while working in the fast-food industry. This led him to pursue his certification as a chef, and for many years, he worked as a catering chef, serving large corporate events and colleges in the Washington, D.C. area. David’s love for cooking extended beyond work, as he was cherished for his grilling expertise at family barbecues and as well as keeping with tradition during holiday gatherings. Recently, David found fulfillment through his volunteer work in the food ministry at Kingdom Fellowship AME Church, where he had been a devoted member for over 15 years.

David is survived by his daughter LaShawna L. Martin, siblings Geneva Scurry, Willie Martin Jr., Calvin Martin Sr., Janice Henderson, Carolyn Chambers, Ozena Upsher, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and colleagues. David’s kind heart, cheerful spirit and praying soul will be deeply missed by all of those who knew him.

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