It is with heavy hearts and deep love that we announce the passing of James Ann Humphries Martin, age 83, of Jasper, Alabama, who passed away peacefully at her home on February 26, 2026. She was born October 16, 1942.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Collins-Burke Funeral Home, funeral services will follow at 3:00 p.m. in the Collins-Burke Chapel. Greg Tinker will officiate. Burial will be at Walker Memory Gardens.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Charles Gary Martin, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and partnership, her daughters: Jamie Diane Martin, Pharm.D., and Gari Leigh Martin Minor (Chuck); five grandchildren: McKenzie Martin Jones, Israel James Martin, Charles Wesley Minor, MD (Ashlyn), Andrew Houston Minor (Ashlyn, MD), and Patrick Lee Minor (Allison); and one precious great-granddaughter, Eleanor Grace Minor. She is also survived by her sisters, Vicki Rice and Diane Finley, as well as a host of other relatives, her All Four RE family, and many, many friends and clients who became friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Mildred and Wesley Humphries; a son, John Wesley Martin; and her lifelong best friend, Sandra Humphries Lee who was her “partner in crime,” cousin, and constant companion in laughter, adventure, and mischief. Their bond was one for the ages.
James Ann’s life was marked by hard work, adventure, and deep devotion to those she loved most. A lifelong resident of Jasper, she built a legacy of education, entrepreneurship, and unwavering dedication to her family, friends, and community. Her legacy continues through her treasured grandchildren.
Education was one of James Ann’s great callings. She attended Walker College and The University of Alabama, earning her Bachelor of Science, Master of Arts, and Educational Specialist degrees, along with post-graduate studies in English. She dedicated 28 years to teaching, shaping young minds with intelligence, discipline, and compassion. Her adventurous spirit led her to become a licensed travel agent, allowing her to explore the world — one of her many passions. For the last 26 years of her career, she was a respected real estate broker and one of the four founding members of All Four Real Estate. Her work ethic was unmatched; she was always working, always helping, always giving.
Above all, James Ann was devoted to her family. She believed in showing up, standing strong, and doing the work. She was a steady presence, a source of wisdom, and a woman whose strength shaped generations. Her strength was the foundation of her family, and that strength will carry them forward.
Overall, James Ann loved people, and loved helping and encouraging people. She also loved her church family at Covenant Church of the Nazarene. James Ann will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
