By J.R. TIDWELL / Editor

Rep. Jimmy Martin, 80, passed away during the early morning hours of May 31 after battling cancer.

His death was confirmed via a social media post made by Martin Funeral Home in Clanton, where he was co-owner.

“Dad, Jimmy Martin, went to be with our Heavenly Father early this morning,” stated the post. “He is healed, which is exactly what we have been praying for! We just made it home, so we will let everyone know the arrangements later today. Please continue to pray for our family as we go through these next several days. We love and appreciate all the love and prayers our family and friends have surrounded us with! Blessed!”

Martin was born on Dec. 14, 1938. He was a member of the state House of Representatives for 17 years. He served from 1998-2010 and again from 2014 until his passing. He is a former coroner of Chilton County.

Gov. Kay Ivey issued a statement during the morning of May 31 concerning Martin’s passing.

“Early this morning, state Representative Jimmy Martin lost his battle to cancer,” she said. “Alabama has truly lost a good man and statesman. His many years of service to the people of Autauga and Chilton counties have made a lasting impact on the future of the entire state. As we enter in the final moments of this Legislative Session, let us remember the contributions that Representative Martin made throughout his tenure. His presence in the Alabama House of Representatives will be greatly missed. I offer my prayers to his family during this difficult time of loss.”

Ivey directed flags on the grounds of the Alabama State Capitol Complex, as well as those in Autauga and Chilton counties, be flown at half-staff to honor Martin.

Other state politicians also took to social media and sent out press releases offering their condolences for Martin’s passing and speaking of his ability and character.

“I woke this morning to the news that our dear friend and colleague Rep. Jimmy Martin passes (sic) away,” tweeted Cam Ward, state Senator of District 14 including Chilton County. “He was a dear friend & good legislator. He will be missed.”

The House Republican Caucus released the following statement from Majority Leader Nathaniel Ledbetter:
“The members of the House Republican Caucus are saddened to learn of the passing of our friend and colleague, Rep. Jimmy Martin, but we are buoyed by the knowledge that he is free of his cancer and reaping God’s promised reward for a life well-lived.
“Because of the institutional knowledge that resulted from his 17 years as a member of the House, Jimmy was a great resource for all of us to call upon, but more valuable than his knowledge were the smiles, pats on the back, and words of encouragement that he constantly offered to House members on both sides of the aisle.
“All of us will miss Jimmy’s reassuring presence, and his constituents will miss the leadership and devoted service he provided to them in the committee rooms, corridors, and chambers of the Alabama State House.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family he leaves behind as we offer prayers for their solace and comfort.”