[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 191 (Monday, November 9, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1011]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                  RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF BOBBY MARTIN

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                            HON. TRENT KELLY

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, November 9, 2020

  Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate 
the life of Bobby Martin, who passed away on November 4, 2020. Bobby 
was born on February 13, 1933 to Elijah and Valca Martin. As a 1956 
agronomy graduate of Mississippi State University, Bobby was a lifelong 
Bulldog fan. He served as the Chairman of the MSU Foundation, the 
President of the Bulldog Club, and the Alumni Association's 1999 
National Alumnus of the Year. In 2002, he was awarded the honorary 
doctorate of business degree. Bobby served northeast Mississippi as 
Chairman of the Blue Mountain College Board of Trustees and as a member 
of the Board of Trustees for Northeast Mississippi Community College.
  Outside of serving his community, Bobby also served in the United 
States Army during the Korean War, then later began his career at The 
Peoples Bank. He held the positions of president and CEO for 42 years, 
roles now occupied by his daughter. Bobby's passion for his community 
was evidenced by his lifetime of service to his customers and his 
mentorship of countless students and employees. He served as Chairman 
of the Mississippi Bankers Association and the Mississippi Board of 
Banking Review. His generosity was embodied in his position as chairman 
emeritus of the CREATE Foundation. He spearheaded the effort to 
establish a CREATE affiliate in Tippah County in 1997, an organization 
dedicated to improving the quality of life in communities through 
investments.
  Bobby was known as a pillar of faith in his community. He served as a 
deacon and member of the choir of First Baptist Church. He treated his 
associates like family. The People's Bank, as well as the countless 
organizations and local industries he impacted, mourn his loss and will 
always remember his profound impact on the community.
  He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Barbara Cook; his daughter, 
Mary Childs; and many beloved grandchildren. Bobby was preceded in 
death by his parents and sisters Georgia Crook, Virginia Coombs, and 
Peggy Marvin.
  Bobby Martin lived as an example of generosity, faith, and service to 
his community and country. His impact on North Mississippi will endure, 
and he will be greatly missed.

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