"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

II Timothy 4:7-8

Mrs. Julia Lucille Burns Martin, 78, formerly of 2688 Chari Park Lane, was born April 26, 1946, in Stanly County to Willie and Julia Burns. She departed this life at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center, Tuesday, May 7, 2024.

A graduate of Atkins High School, Class of 1963. Julia started an early career with the Reynolds Carolina Credit Union which changed its name to Allegacy Federal Credit Union. Julia was a pioneer in the Credit Union with a career that spanned 35 years overseeing operations for multiple branches and molding many of the Credit Union's current leaders. In 2004, she would retire from her position as Branch Manager because of health issues.

In April of 1966 she married the love of her life, Elvin Ray Martin. And to this blessed union 2 children were born, Lamonte "Terry" and LaKeisha.

As a devoted member of Greater Cleveland Avenue Christian Church, she served on the financial board for several years. Julia also became heavily involved in the Forsyth Correctional Center Prison Ministry. She would later join Galilee Missionary Baptist Church in January 2023.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by six brothers, Walter Lee, John Lee, Jeffrey Andre, Monte Ervin, Timothy Bernard, and Herman "Rocky" Funderburk; sister, Cassandra Burns; sisters-in-law, Shirley Burns and Patricia Burns; and many other relatives.

Left to cherish many dear and fond memories are her two children: son, Lamonte "Terry" Martin of Winston-Salem, NC and daughter, LaKeisha Martin of the home; one grandson, Michael McCray; devoted niece, Nicole (Jeff) Hemingway; four brothers, Thomas "Tommy" Burns, Carl Burns (Roxie), Myron Burns and Donnie Davis (Carla); sisters, Linda Burns-Chambers and Priscilla Burns; special sisters-in-law, Cynthia Sharpe Burns, Margaret Burns, Blondie Burns, and Jacqueline Grace Burns; and many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Famously known for her baking abilities, she would bless others with her sweet delights. The social butterfly she was, Julia was a member of the Red Hat Society known as the "Red Hatters", Black Repertory Company, and many other organizations in the community.

Viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Monday, May 13, 2024 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held 12:00pm Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at Galilee Missionary Baptist Church. Interment will follow in Piedmont Memorial Gardens. The family visitation will be held from 11:00am until 12:00pm on Tuesday at the Church.