James Darell Martin

James Darell Martin, age 79, of Evansville, formerly of Wheatcroft, passed away peacefully. Born in Chicago, Illinois in 1946 to the late James "Pete" and Lucille Martin, James grew up in Evansville, Indiana. He was a proud graduate of the "old" Central High School in Evansville in 1964 and went on to earn an associate degree in accounting from Lockyear College.

James spent 40 years residing in Madison and Richland Center, Wisconsin, where he dedicated his career to public service. He worked at Mendota Mental Health Institute, the Holiday Inn, and for the state of Wisconsin. After many years of committed service as a Correctional Officer, he retired and later returned to Evansville in 2021 to live with his daughter and grandson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wives, Jan Martin and Evelyn Fraser; and his step-great-grandson Joey Zeno.

James is lovingly remembered by his daughter Krista Marx, her mother Brenda Little, and his grandson Joshua Marx, all of Evansville. He is also survived by his sister Brenda Stone and her husband John of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, along with their children and grandchildren; his fiancée Norma Reeder of Evansville; his uncle Robert Martin of Wheatcroft; cousin Rita K. Martin of Sturgis; his dear friend Tom Buggs of Evansville; and his cherished Shih Tzu, Lilly. Many other family members hold his memory dear.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Vanover Funeral Home in Clay. Burial will follow at Rocksprings Cemetery in Wheatcroft. Visitation will take place on Monday from 10:00 AM until the time of the service at the funeral home.

Friends and family are invited to share condolences online at www.vanoverfuneralhome.com.