Richard Gordon Martin

Springfield - Father to 5, grandfather to 18, great-grandfather to 14, educator of many, Richard was a proud yet unassuming man who expressed his thoughts through a keen intellect, demonstrated his ability to not take life too seriously with his quick sense of humor, and shared his many talents with all – from sailing to photography, all facets of woodworking, from building to carving. Richard Gordon Martin, age 97, passed away on June 22, 2020 at East Village Place. He was born on January 4, 1923 in Springfield, MA to the late Harry and Clara Alice (Barrus) Martin.
Richard was an educator and administrator spanning 30 years in the Springfield Public School system. He was an esteemed colleague of many from White Street School, Frederick Harris School, and Brunton School.
Richard enjoyed camping in the Caribbean and traveling with Barbara to parts of Europe and the United States. Richard earned respect and admiration with ease. He will be greatly missed by his sons Richard Martin Jr. of AK, and T.J. Martin and his wife Mary of Springfield, his daughters Susan Hanson of Springfield and Bobbie Schrader and her husband Richard of Ashburnham, his brother Ronald Martin of Florida and many extended family members. He is predeceased by his wife of 71 years, Barbara, his second eldest son Lawrence Martin as well as Richard’s siblings Elizabeth (Betty) Cole of Leyden, and sister Arlene Mason of Williamstown. Richard’s family would like to thank the staff at East Village for all of their care and attention. Services are entrusted to Forastiere Smith Funeral Home and will be held privately. Memorial contributions in Richard’s name may be made to Springfield Schools Volunteers, 1550 Main Street, 3rd Floor, Springfield, MA 01103. To leave a message of personal condolence visit www.forastiere.com.