Joseph “Joe” M. Martin

CHARLESTON - Joseph “Joe” M. Martin, age 83, of Charleston, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and children.

A memorial service will be held later this year, with details to be announced.

Joe was born on December 19, 1943, in Portland, ME, the son of Arlie and Mida (Diamond) Martin. He married Rebecca Martin on May 10, 1975 in Charleston, Illinois; she survives. Also surviving are his daughter, Charlotte Martin of Monrovia, California; his son, Eric Martin and wife Robin Martin of Roswell, Georgia; and four beloved grandchildren, Ronen Andrews, Stella Andrews, Noah Martin, and Olivia Martin.

Joe earned both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Eastern Carolina University. Joe dedicated 42 years of service to Eastern Illinois University, where he served as a teacher beginning in 1969, appointed Associate Professor in 1988, and ultimately Assistant Chair of the Department of Music, before retiring in 2011. He served as Faculty Marshall in 2001.

Throughout his career at Eastern Illinois University, Joe helped establish and develop the Summer Music Camp and played a significant role in growing the annual Celebration event to its peak attendance. His passion for education, music, and student development left a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues.

Joe was well known around campus in the 1970s for riding his bicycle to and from work and throughout the community. An avid cyclist, he meticulously maintained a journal for nearly 40 years documenting his daily rides and weather conditions. Over the course of his lifetime, he logged more than 700,000 miles on his bicycle while exploring the roads and countryside of Coles County and the surrounding areas.

Joe's deep appreciation for Eastern Illinois University and the beauty of the central Illinois countryside kept him firmly rooted in Charleston throughout his life. He cherished the community, the university, and the many friendships he built over the years.

Joe will be remembered for his dedication to education, his love of music, his passion for cycling, and the positive influence he had on generations of students, colleagues, friends, and family.

Memorials may be made in Joe's honor may be made to: www.eiu.edu/giving.php

To view the obituary, send a condolence message, or share memories, please visit Harper-Swickard Funeral Home's website: hsckfh.com Harper-Swickard Funeral Home of Charleston is assisting the family with arrangements.