Sylvester Leon Martin, affectionately known as "Slick" was born in Forsyth County to the late Hilda Martin on December 17, 1941. Sylvester departed this life on May 10, 2010 peacefully at his home. He was a graduate of Atkins High School class of 1962. "Slick" lived and worked in Winston-Salem all his life. He retired from RJR/Whitaker Park Tobacco Company after more than 30 years of service. He was also of the Baptist Faith. He loved people and never met a stranger. Being with his grandchildren, whom he loved dearly, was one of the highlights of his life. He enjoyed attending the CIAA basketball tournaments and the NASCAR races. Anyone who knew "Slick" knew that he had a fashion style all his own.
"Slick" is survived by his wife, Alisteen C. Martin; two sons, Darryl Dearman of Winston-Salem, NC and Kevin D. Martin (Ola) of Fort Mill, SC; daughter, Kina D. Martin of Rock Hill, SC; step-daughter, Oversia Squire of Winston-Salem, NC; one sister, Hilda A. Foster (Bernard) of Winston-Salem, NC; nine grandchildren, Candice Caldwell, Sinclair Martin, Sterling Martin, Eddie Caldwell, Dannialle Dieu, Fannialle Dieu, James Squire, Jamal Dearman, and D'Andre Dearman; one aunt, Mahala Kellem of Baltimore, MD; sister-in-law, Ruth A. Pearson (Clarence) of Jacksonville, FL; two brothers-in-law, Robert Creech (Yolanda) of Concord, NC and Vincent Alexander of Winston-Salem, NC; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.
Funeral services will be held at 12noon Saturday, May 15, 2010 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Issac Carter officiating. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. The family visitation will be held from 11am until 12noon on Saturday at the funeral home.