Jeremiah “Jere” G. MARTIN, 75, of Ulysses, PA, formerly of Harrison Valley, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, October 18, 2026, in his home. Born November 3, 1950, in East Earl, he was the son of Edwin and Emma Good Martin. 

From the farmland of Lancaster County to the rugged hills of Potter County, Jere Martin left his mark near and far. His trademark bib overalls, booming voice, warm heart, and infectious smile made him unmistakable wherever he went. 

Jere’s life was rooted in his deep faith in God, a love for family, and an uncanny ability to foster connections wherever he roamed.  Throughout his childhood, he developed a formidable work ethic, a love of song, a joy in Sunday afternoon visiting, and an enduring appreciation for sweet treats. Friendships that took root in corn cribs, one room schoolhouses, youth groups, and hymn sings were maintained and strengthened through years of phone calls, get-togethers, and spontaneous pop-ins.

Jere wedded the love of his life, Margie Ann Martin, at Strasburg Mennonite Church on April 22, 1972. Their marriage was grounded in a love of Jesus, humor, the willingness to admit wrongdoing, and an unfailing commitment to one another through the joys and challenges of building a business and raising four children.

Jere first dipped his toe into service at Northern Tier Children’s Home, in Harrison Valley in 1970.  That experience drew him to Potter County and began a lifelong commitment to serving others in honor of Jesus. From volunteer auctioneering and Mennonite mission trips to entertaining youngsters at CMA’s Kids’ Club and pouring his heart into Penn-York Camp, Jere embodied the spirit of giving.

Through hard work, a deeply entrepreneurial spirit, and a knack for creative problem solving, he and Margie owned and operated M&M Barn Sales from 1976-2021. You didn’t come to M&M just for the lumber, you stayed for the way he made you feel. Unexpected deliveries of donuts to the work crew, an offer of hot coffee, and a glove box full of candy offer just a glimpse of the many ways he made people feel welcome.

Our Pop was one of a kind. His children remember him for his prayerful persistence, his consistent support, emphatic comical interjections, and love of picnics. He taught us to notice the forgotten, serve behind the scenes, and offer hospitality even when our home or menu lacked precision.

His grandchildren remember him for showing up with his time. Foosball, deer hunting, treehouse building, ice cream stops, birthday celebrations, and making deliveries. Whether it was ball games, concerts, recitals, or graduations, Pop was there.

Jere reveled in life’s simple pleasures: an ice cream cone, a game of Scrabble, a surprise picnic, early morning calls from his siblings, or a favorite hymn sung around the campfire.

He spent a lifetime giving to others. When he was diagnosed with ALS at the age of 75, his community, family, and friends rallied to support him. Our world won’t be the same without that bib-clad, pickup-driving, ice-cream-eating, booming-voiced man we love and adore. We take solace in knowing he is safe in the arms of Jesus.

Surviving besides his wife, Margie, are: four children, Michelle (Barry) Brubaker of Ulysses, Melody (Gary) Crawford of Harrison Valley, Melinda Martin of Wilmington, DE, and Loren (Leah) Martin of Harrison Valley; eleven grandchildren; two brothers, Amos (Karen) Martin of Ephrata and Edwin (Carol Ann) Martin Jr. of East Earl; four sisters, Esther (Elvin) Horst of Refton, Anna (Herb) Susmann of Ithaca, NY, Mary Jane (Elmer) Nolt of Bowmansville, and Lois (Titus) Martin of Mohnton; nieces and nephews. 

Rev. Robert Walters will officiate a Celebration of Life Ceremony at Penn-York Camp, 266 Northern Potter Road, Ulysses, PA on Saturday, October 31, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., with all being invited for one last picnic to celebrate Pop. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Penn York Camp, 266 Northern Potter Road, Ulysses, PA 16948. 

Private burial was in West Union Church Cemetery, Rexville, NY. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.