Debbie Martin

Debbie Martin, 51 of Abilene, passed away at her home on November 12th, 2009. A memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 am Saturday November 14th, 2009 at the Beltway Park Baptist Church Chapel under the direction of Piersall Benton Funeral Directors, 733 Butternut St.


Debra Kay Sanborn was born on November 26, 1957 to Everett and Alice Sanborn in Uchitomari, Okinawa Japan when her father was serving in the military. They traveled much of her childhood but in 1977 she moved to Abilene. She and her husband of over 32 years, Joe raised their three children in Abilene and together they found many different ways to serve others. Debra loved life and it showed in everything she did from cleaning houses for people to teaching Sunday School at Beltway Park where she was a faithful member. Debbie was an artist, chocolate lover, airplane enthusiast, and seamstress. She even designed and made her own wedding dress.

Preceding Debbie in death were her father and one sister Linda Rice. She is survived by her husband Joe Martin of Abilene, three sons; Jed Martin and wife Sherry, Samuel Amos Martin, and John Martin, a daughter; Sally Jo Shipman and husband 2nd Lt. David Shipman, USAF, two grandchildren; Isaiah and Jacob Shipman, her mother Alice Sanborn, a brother, Danny Sanborn and wife Teresa, two sisters; Deanna Williams and husband Lee and Karen Howard and husband Chuck as well as numerous extended family members and close friends.

The impact that Debbie had during her short 51 years on this earth, will be felt for generations through her family and others she came into contact with. The family requests that donations be made to Beltway Park Baptist Church, Generations Fund, 4009 Beltway South, Abilene, 79606. Condolences can be offered to the family online at www.pbfuneraldirectors.com.