Emmett Chad Martin, 76, of Solomons, Maryland, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 23, 1949, in Calvert County, Maryland, Chad was the son of Margaret Mary Mister and William Chad Martin.
Chad spent his childhood in Solomons and attended Our Lady Star of the Sea School through ninth grade before graduating from Calvert High School. In 1969, he was drafted into the Army, where he served his country with honor. Following his military service, Chad dedicated over 30 years to his career as an Ironworker with Local #5 in Washington, DC.
A man of deep faith, Chad was ordained as a Deacon in the Roman Catholic Church, faithfully serving for more than 32 years. He was devoted to proclaiming the Gospel, preaching, serving in the liturgy, and leading in charity. Over the years, Chad baptized countless individuals, counseled and married many couples, and officiated numerous funerals for Rausch and Lee Funeral Homes. His ministry extended to organizations such as the Forestville Pregnancy Center, SOME (So Others Might Eat), Engaged Couple Ministry, and Stephens Ministry, among many others.
In August 1968, Chad married the love of his life, Barbara “Bobbie”. Together, they raised three wonderful children: Tracy (Matthew) Odell of Huntingtown, Richard Martin of Hollywood, and Heather (Michael) Cusin of Prince Frederick. Known affectionately as Pop and Bop, Chad cherished his seven grandchildren: Christopher, Patrick, Rebekah, Macy, Annabelle, Gabrielle, and his best friend Michael Chad.
Chad is survived by his beloved wife Bobbie of 56 years, his children, and his grandchildren. He was the eldest of five siblings, survived by Patricia Abell, Darlene Kutay, and Joseph Martin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and William, and his brother, Francis Martin.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady Star of the Sea in Solomons, MD. Friends and family are invited to a visitation on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Rausch Funeral Home in Lusby from 1–3 p.m. and 5–7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the new preschool building project at Our Lady Star of the Sea School. The preschool will be constructed in honor of Deacon Chad. https://membership.faithdirect.net/givenow/MD304/59431
Ray Smith
April 25 – Obituary: Emmett Chad Martin
Prayers to Bobbie and the Martin Family,
Had the pleasure of growing up with Chad & Bobbie through Our Lady then onto Calvert. Chad answered GOD’s calling and countless of families in Southern Maryland have been touched by kindness and support both in good and difficult times. Chad is now at peace and serves his LORD in Heaven.
JOANNE Louise Alu
April 25 – Obituary: Emmett Chad Martin
Dear Bobbie & Family,
We are sorry we could not attend the service for Chad. May God surround you and bring you strength and comfort now and always. Love goes on forever.
Chad is with the angels. Love. JoAnne And Richard (Alu)
Betty Parker Joseph
April 24 – Obituary: Emmett Chad Martin
Dearest Bobbie and Family,
I am so sorry I could not be there in person, but please know that I am with you in spirit today and always! Deacon Chad was a great man, a wonderful human being and an amazing child of God. He left an awesome legacy for your family and his church family. My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Love,
Betty Joseph
Kim and Steve Crowe
April 23 – Obituary: Emmett Chad Martin
Our deepest condolences to Bobbie and family. Chad was so kind and a great man. Rest in peace.
Barbara Humphreys
April 23 – Obituary: Emmett Chad Martin
Barbara Humphreys
My heartfelt condolences to Bobbie and the family. From the days at Jesus the Good Shepherd and continuing at Our Lady Star of the Sea, Chad has touched my life and the lives of my family with a gentleness that has given me hope and comfort through difficult times. He always expressed an understanding and compassion that touched my heart. He will be missed greatly! He has been a blessing sent by God to all those who have met and known him!
Frederick Curran
April 23 – Obituary: Emmett Chad Martin
Dear Bobbie and Family,
I was so sorry to hear of Chaddie’s passing. He and I came into this world two days apart; he on March 23rd and me on March 25th – so I can truthfully say I’ve know him my whole, entire life. For 76 years there has never been a better friend, a better person, or a better man.
You will be missed old friend – and until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Rest in Peace
David Murkey
April 23 – Obituary: Emmett Chad Martin
Sending Prayers for the entire Family as you navigate your way through these challenging times. From a great man come great people. So, he must have been one of the Greatest.
Kathryn Williams
April 23 – Obituary: Emmett Chad Martin
Chad’s life was an inspiration, and challenge, on how to walk the Christian life. He was an honest, down-to-earth man; who was always giving of his time, and money, to those in need. His life story is an encouragement on how much good we can accomplish for the glory of the LORD, once we begin living for Him. I give thanks, for the opportunity to have known Chad. May the LORD bless his family with comfort, strength, and peace.
Charles S. Slingland
April 22 – Obituary: Emmett Chad Martin
Bobbie and family,
My deepest sympathy on Chad’s passing. He was one of Christ’s good disciples in this world for so long that he must have accomplished all that was to be done in this life. And so he was called home. My prayers and love go out to you at this difficult time but we will all meet Chad again at home with the Lord.
Chuck and Kathy Slingland
Ronnie Smith
April 22 – Obituary: Emmett Chad Martin
Oh my friend Bobbie, what a great loss. You and Chad have been friends of Earl & me for so long. What a blessing that our paths crossed. You two were such a help with our engaged ministry. I was there for Chad’s ordination. I felt like I was witnessing my “spiritual son” being ordained. We know that Our Savior welcomed Chad with open arms. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
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