Richard William Martin

Richard W. Martin, 82, of Columbus, Ohio, formerly of Ayersville, Ohio, passed away peacefully at Kobacker House, OhioHealth Hospice.

Richard was born on July 21, 1943, in Defiance, Ohio, to Gerald and Elizabeth Martin. He was the fourth of seven children. He grew up in Ayersville and is remembered as a key member of the 1961 and 1962 Ayersville Pilots basketball teams, which will be inducted into the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame in June. Richard attended Marshall University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. He was an award-winning salesman throughout his career in insurance.

Richard spent most of his life in Ohio but was especially grateful for the eight years he lived in Wilmington, North Carolina. During that time, he became an avid fan of the Carolina Hurricanes. He had a deep appreciation for nature, often spending time outdoors enjoying the scenery and listening to birds.

Richard was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He had a lively, joyful personality that lit up a room—but it was the way he listened, understood, and remembered people that made him truly unforgettable.

He is survived by his children, David Martin (son of Carolyn, deceased in 2021), Lindsay Little (Benjamin), and Ashley Hunn (Andrew) (daughters of Cheryl); his stepsons, Aaron Bensing (Emelie) and Nathan Bensing; and his beloved grandchildren, Jacob, Lucas, Emily, Naomi, Robert, and Nora. He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia, and other loved ones who welcomed him home.

Richard’s legacy lives on through the family he cherished and the example he set—one of enduring resilience and a heart full of love.

A memorial service will be held at North Broadway United Methodist Church in Columbus, Ohio, on May 26, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the National Audubon Society.