Martin, Darrel Dennis

On March 20, 2015, Darrel Dennis Martin, 69, of Newport, began his first heavenly political campaign. He leaves behind his brother, Dr. Douglas Martin and his many friends, golfing buddies and the political banner to be picked up by others. He was predeceased by his parents Paul and Bernice Martin.

Darrel met his wife of nearly 44 years, Marie Martin, at Mountain Lake. That is also where he met his first political candidate, Andrew Miller. After that, he taught English at the University of Richmond until he moved back to Giles County.

The 1985 gubernatorial win by Jerry Baliles sent Darrel to Richmond as the first strategic planner for Virginia. Afterwards he returned home and worked with Jim Nichols in Agriculture at Virginia Tech before going to work with President Jim Mc Comas. He managed many political campaigns and was a political consultant for others throughout his entire life.

Darrel was most proud of his two daughters, Laura Marie of Reston and Erin Lyndal of Madison, WI. He often called them his two greatest achievements.

Other achievements that he fathered include the Virginia Rescue Squads Assistance Act, which still gives money to the local squads, the concept for the Tech Bioinformatics Center and his work on the SALT II treaty through the Pew Foundation.

All who knew him called him friend and noted his great compassion and generous spirit. He was also an animal lover. He fed an assortment of raccoons, skunks, stray cats and other creatures. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Until then, feed an animal in his honor.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting kendallfuneralhome.com.