Cynthia Arlene (Hilliard) Martin

Cynthia Arlene Martin, of Tyler, Texas, was born on the 17th day of July 1942 in Pascagoula, Mississippi, to B.A. Hilliard and Mattie J. Scarborough Hilliard and went to be with the Lord on Friday, the 26th day of December 2025.  She was 83 years of age.

Mrs. Martin is preceded in death by her parents B.A. and Mattie Hilliard; husband, Max Martin; son-in-law, Ray Ballard; sisters, Linda Gunnels and Barbara Mixon; and her brother, Stephen Hilliard.

She is survived by her five children and their spouses, Connie Ballard of Pearl, Mississippi, Vickie Wells of College Station, Texas, Susan Dorsey and husband Cavin of Palestine, Texas, Michael Martin and wife Michelle of Tyler, Texas, and James Martin and wife Kelly of Elkhart, Texas.  She also leaves behind her sister, Sandra Nichols of Center, Texas; brother, Bernard “Bud” Hilliard, Jr. of Houston, Texas; twenty-one grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Martin's journey as a pastor's wife led her to serve alongside her husband in various congregations throughout East Texas, where she became a cherished member of each church family. She was a faithful member of Sheridan Terrace Baptist Church.

Mrs. Martin's love for Christmas was profound, and she reveled in the joy that the holiday season brought to her family. Her children and grandchildren were her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them. “Grandma” as she was affectionately called, had a unique way of making each grandchild feel special, often spoiling them with love and attention, and even joining in their video game adventures, much to their delight.

In quieter moments, Mrs. Martin found pleasure in working on word puzzles and delving into genealogical research. Her love for music often filled her home with melodies that echoed the harmony she fostered within her family.

Mrs. Martin's legacy is one of love and service. She will be remembered as a woman who lived her beliefs, loved without reservation, and brought joy to the lives of many.  Her journey on Earth has ended, but her spirit will forever be a guiding light to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from five o’clock until seven o’clock in the evening on Friday, the 2nd day of January 2026 at Rhone Funeral Home.

Funeral services for Cynthia Martin will begin at three o’clock in the afternoon on Saturday, the 3rd day of January 2026 in the Rhone Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow in Magnolia Ferry Cemetery where Mrs. Martin will be laid to rest next to her husband.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Michael Martin, Cavin Dorsey, James Martin, Jessica Nedbalek, Ashley Tally, and Rachel Hoffman.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions can be directed towards Vecinos en Cristo, 2204 Venture View, Palestine, Texas 75803.

Funeral services for Cynthia Arlene Martin are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas.  Please visit her online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with her family

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