With great sadness, we announce the passing of Gregory R. Martin, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, teacher, veteran, and public servant, who passed away on July 17, 2026, at the age of 75.

Born on September 20, 1950, Greg lived a life defined by service, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. Whether in the classroom, at the Village Office, or around the dinner table with those he loved most, he was known for his generosity, steady presence, and willingness to help others. Family remained at the heart of everything he did.

Greg was preceded in death by his parents, Edrick and Phyllis (Kenneson) Martin; his grandmother, Velma DeMerchant; his sister, Gayle Sleve; and his brother, David Martin.

He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Laurie Martin; his son, Charles Martin and daughter-in-law, Alesia Martin; and his daughter, Johanna Martin-Prener, and son-in-law, Chris Prener. He also leaves behind his cherished granddaughters, Colden and Cedar Prener, who adored their Papa and brought him immeasurable joy. Greg is also survived by his brothers, Jeffrey (Cheryl) Martin and Paul (Lynn) Martin; his sisters, Joyce Sherer and Lori (Paul) Clark; his brother-in-law, Jerry Sleve; and several nieces and nephews, all of whom will miss him dearly.

Above all else, Greg was a family man. His greatest joy came from the life he built with his beloved wife, Laurie. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and an adoring Papa who treasured every moment spent with those he loved. Family was the center of Greg’s life and, without question, his greatest joy and proudest legacy.

A veteran of the United States Army, Greg carried a lifelong commitment to serving others. He dedicated more than 30 years to educating students at Northeastern Clinton Central School, where he inspired generations of young people and earned the respect of colleagues, students, and families alike. His classroom reflected who he was—laid-back, approachable, and filled with quiet encouragement. He understood that teaching was not just about lessons in a textbook, but about encouraging his students to become their best selves.

Retirement from teaching did not mean retirement from service. Greg first served on the Village of Champlain Board of Trustees for five years before being elected Mayor, a position he held for over eight years. During his tenure, he championed a variety of initiatives, always striving to make Champlain a safer and stronger community. He also served on the board of Northern Housing Development, helping provide affordable housing opportunities for local senior citizens. Recognition was never something he sought; he simply believed in doing the right thing for his neighbors and community.

Greg will be remembered for his quiet kindness, unwavering integrity, warm smile, love of moose, and steadfast presence in the lives of those who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of service, compassion, and quiet leadership that will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.

Arrangements are in the care of Ross Funeral Home. In accordance with Greg’s wishes, there will be no formal services. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family warmly invites those whose lives were touched by Greg to share memories and photographs at: http://tinyurl.com/Remembering-Greg, so that his stories and legacy may continue to be shared for generations to come.