Herbert J. "Herb" Martin Jr., 94

ADAMS, Mass. —  Herbert “Herb” Judson Martin Jr., 94, of Pittsfield, formerly of Adams, died on Tuesday, December 24, 2024 at Hillcrest Commons in Pittsfield. He was born on December 11, 1930, in Salem, MA, a son of the late Herbert Judson Martin Sr. and Mabel (Kent) Martin.

Herb attended schools in Pittsfield and graduated from Pittsfield High School in 1949. He then attended the University of Kansas. Herb was a Veteran of the United States Army and served in the Korean Conflict. He was stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso, TX.

Herb was employed for 25 years as a salesman at National Biscuit Company and later at General Electric. He was last employed at W.R. Grace Co. in Adams. Herb was a communicant of Notre Dame Church and Pope John Paul Parish. He was one of the dedicated volunteers who occupied St. Stan’s Church in order to impede the closure. He was a diehard New England sports fan, especially for the Boston Red Sox, the Celtics and the New England Patriots. Herb was also a devoted fan of local high school sports at Hoosac Valley High School. Herb loved music; whether playing the piano for his fellow residents, listening to polka music or dancing anywhere and everywhere (he was a regular Fred Astaire).

Herb was predeceased by his wife, Catherine (Bedard) Martin who died in 1997. He leaves his sister, Linda Somerville, of Pittsfield and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two brothers and a sister: Dean Martin, Allan Martin and Jacqueline Gaviorno. Herb also leaves many friends who he met while walking in Adams; stopping in at local businesses, he loved to entertain folks with his wit and stories. He definitely had the Irish gift of gab.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at Hillcrest Commons for their amazing care and support.

FUNERAL NOTICE: A celebration of his life will take place on January 7, 2025 at 11:00 AM at John Paul II Parish Notre Des Sept Douleurs Church in Adams. Burial will be in Bellevue Cemetery in the springtime. Flynn & Dagnoli Funeral Homes – CENTRAL CHAPEL 74 Marshall St. North Adams, MA 01247 is entrusted with arrangements. Those who wish to make a memorial contribution to Soldier On may do so in care of Flynn Dagnoli Funeral Home. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com