Vascoe Stephen Martin Jr, 84

Vascoe Stephen Martin, Jr. passed from this life at the age of 84 on Monday, July 6, 2026 at Methodist Medical Center surrounded by his family.

Steve was born September 2, 1941 in Waycross, Georgia to Vascoe Stephen, Sr and Mary Katherine Wisenbaker Martin. They moved to Valdosta and later Bainbridge, Georgia where he graduated from High School in 1959. Steve served in the United

State Navy during the Vietnam Era. He followed in the footsteps of his father and began a career with BellSouth Telephone and Telegraph in 1969 in Atlanta. It was there he met his wife, Barbara “Bobbie” Lynch. After getting married they moved to Knoxville, Tennessee in 1973 where he worked for South Central Bell. In 1975 they made Oak Ridge their home. Steve continued his work and retired from AT&T in 1999.

Steve leaves behind a legacy of faith, love and service. He was a devoted Christian and faithful member of the Karns Church of Christ even when his declining health didn’t allow him to attend in person. His love for God was evident in the way he lived each day. His faith was the foundation of his life, guiding his love for his family. Those who knew Steve will remember his steadfast faith, quiet strength, kind heart and deep love for his family. He lived a life that pointed others to Christ and leaves an example of faithfulness for generations to come.

Throughout his life, Steve enjoyed bowling, golf, woodworking and watching the Atlanta Braves. He was an avid reader, mostly westerns and you could always find a devotional book and his Bible beside his chair. He also supported every activity in which his children or grandchildren were involved in.

Steve was one of the 12 Charter Members of the Oak Ridge Heritage & Preservation Association (ORHPA) where he supported his wife’s efforts on displays and events. Recently he was a contributor to the Ed Westcott Statue at the Oak Ridge History Museum. His obituary picture was taken by Ed Westcott.

He was the beloved husband of his wife, Bobbie whom he shared 55 years of marriage. Together they built a home centered on faith, love and unwavering commitment. Steve was a proud and loving father to Gabe and Sarah Martin, Leah and David Baldwin, and Cory Martin. He treasured every minute with his family and found great joy in being “Papa” to his grandchildren: Drew, Victoria, Keegan, Jackson, Kate, Eli, Emma, Charlotte, William and Warren. He deeply respected and treasured his father-in-law, Robert “Red” Lynch. He is also survived by his sister, Candy (Ed) Wright of Texas.

Though his family grieves his passing, they rejoice in the hope found in Christ. Steve will be greatly missed and forever cherished by his wife, children and grandchildren, extended family, church family and many dear friends. The family would like to thank his CNS home health nurses and the ICU and 4th floor staff at Methodist Medical Center for their amazing support and care.

The family will receive friends at Weatherford Mortuary in Oak Ridge on Friday, July 10th 5-7pm with a service following. Graveside services will be held at Oak Ridge Memorial Park on Saturday, July 11th at 3pm. Steve’s grandsons will serve as Pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hillbrook Christian Camp online at Hillbrookcamp.com or mail to P.O. Box 32022, Knoxville TN 37930 where Steve served to help build camp facilities in 1974.