It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Martin Edward Williams, a lifelong educator and athletics coach who touched the lives of many. Martin, born on December 2, 1949, in Lafayette, Indiana, peacefully departed from this world on Sunday October 22, 2023, at home in Otterbein with his family. His impact on the lives of those he touched is immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us. We will forever hold his memory close to our hearts.

Martin was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He was married to his high school sweetheart, Margie A. (Bradford) Williams of Tazewell, TN, on June 3, 1972, and their love remained unwavering for more than fifty years. Together, they built a life filled with love, support, and cherished memories.

Martin is survived by his wife and two daughters, Tonya (husband Oscar) Juarez of Otterbein, IN, and Sarah (husband Joshua) Leaskey of Wayne, PA. He adored his five grandchildren, Olivia and Sofia Juarez, Alex Juarez, and Benjamin and Owen Leaskey, and was a proud and doting grandfather to each of them. He is also survived by his four siblings, Cliff (wife Pam) Williams of West Lafayette, IN, Randy (wife Sandy) Williams of Lafayette, IN, Colleen (husband John) Shewski of Loudon, TN, and Jeff (wife Terry) Vester of Lafayette, IN.

Martin’s journey through life was marked by his unwavering dedication to education and coaching. He spent the majority of his career at Tri-Central Jr./Sr. High School, guiding and mentoring young minds and athletes. His coaching expertise extended across various sports, but he was most notably recognized for his leadership as the football defensive coordinator and head softball coach. He volunteered as a little league softball coach in Otterbein for many years, sharing his passion for sport with his daughters, granddaughters, and their friends. Under his guidance, countless students and athletes developed not only their skills but also their character, a legacy that will endure for generations.

A proud graduate of Benton Central High School, Martin went on to receive his undergraduate degree from Oakland City University in 1973. His commitment to lifelong learning and passion for teaching shone through in his career. Martin’s interests and talents extended beyond the field and the classroom. In his youth, he learned to sail at Culver Academies Summer Naval School, a reflection of his adventurous spirit and love for the open water. He was also an avid sports fan, supporting Purdue football and basketball, and his lifelong favorite Chicago Cubs. Martin spent his summers and retirement years mowing and watering at the West Lafayette Golf and Country Club (formerly Elks Club) and driving for Hertz Rental Cars.

Martin was preceded in death by his father, George D. Williams of Earl Park, IN, his mother, Lois E. (Giroux) Vester of Watseka, IL, his stepfather, William Vester of Otterbein, IN, and his uncle, Carl “Pete” Williams of Winamac, IN.

Services to honor and celebrate Martin’s life will be held on Saturday October 28, 2023, at Soller-Baker Funeral Home West Lafayette Chapel 1184 Sagamore Parkway West, West Lafayette, IN 47906. Visitation for friends and family will be 1-3pm, with a service to follow at 3:00pm. In honor of Martin’s life and passion for sports, we ask that everyone wear their favorite team’s gear. Boiler up!   In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

You may leave condolences at www.soller-baker.com