Jackie Allen Martin,78, of Bellmead passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at 2:04 PM,. He was the last of the Martin family that lived in Bellmead. He is preceded in death by his parents William and Katie Martin, siblings were Ernest, Rachel, Elva Lee, Barbara, Garlin and Tommy. He is survived by his niece, Barbara Martin of Rowlett, her son Christian and his other niece Mary Stephens of Mansfield, her husband Michael and their children Austin and Charley.

His biggest passions in life were family, God and La Vega football. He thought the world of his nieces, always taking them wherever he thought they would have the best time. He took them to the movies, to Baylor University football games and made sure they had whatever they needed in life.

Holidays meant the most to the family though. He was the go to whenever it seemed the girls would be left without. As they grew throughout the years, his nieces never stopped being the apple of his eye. He never once stopped caring for them in any way that he could.

Once his nieces were grown, his world then became his great niece and nephews, Charley, Austin and Christian. He would think about what they would want; always talking about how much they meant to him, making sure the others knew how they were doing. It was family that always made him proud. He never stopped keeping the family connected.

Jackie was a firm believer in Christ. He was a faithful member of Greater Waco Baptist Church where he attended every chance he could.

Whenever it wasn't family, it was La Vega High School football. Everyone that ever played for the team can tell stories of always seeing Jackie on the sideline cheering the team on to victory. He knew as much about the game as the coaches. He was as much a part of the team as the players. Even when they lost, he never missed a game or parade.

Every road trip always had to have Jackie. He was a huge part of the team, almost becoming the heart and soul. He carried the spirit of the game with him that had to be carried, as he was the good luck charm ensuring victory after victory. The best stories he told were stories of victory at the state championship, as he was right there along the sidelines at Cowboy's Stadium.

Jackie was a tried and true La Vega Pirate. He will carry the legacy of family and honor from the team he was a part of. Life will carry on with fond memories of him and heavy hearts. In honor of his memory, please be sure to wear your LaVega gear!!