Obituary of Theodore Roosevelt Martin

Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt Martin, affectionately known as "Butter", was born on Friday, July 23, 1926, in Columbia, South Carolina to the late Elizabeth and Robert Martin. He was the second oldest of four sons. Teddy was preceded in death by his three brothers Robert, Odell and Wilbur Martin. During his youth, Teddy was a participating member of Thankful Baptist Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he enjoyed attending services, developing his appreciation of music and fellowshipping with other members. Teddy was educated in the Philadelphia School System. While attending Central High School for Boys, he accelerated in the academics. He also enthusiastically participated in the arts and extracurricular activities including track and field, football, basketball, and other sports. Teddy was formerly employed by the Philco-Ford Company based in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, as an assembler of radio and television products. Later, as a Labor Union Member of Local 332, he worked as an asbestos extractor. He also rendered his time and service to the Islamic Community Security Division. Butter had a passion for music, especially Jazz. He was truly a jazz enthusiast. He had the ability to hear a few notes, identify the tune and name of the artist. Some of his favorite vocalists and musicians were Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn, Diana Washington, Billy Holiday, Lee Morgan, Miles Davis, and John Coltrane. In many of the jazz venues around town, Butter was known to pick up the mic and dazzle the crowd with his own vocals. Butter will be remembered as being cool, smooth, striking, and dapper. His personality enabled him to attract people of all ages and all walks of life. He was abundantly blessed to have as a soul mate expanding more than fifty years, his beloved Roxie, whom he affectionately called "Slim". She always complimented him with style, grace, and sophistication. Teddy leaves to mourn his passing, but cherish his memory, his devoted and beloved Roxenia Iles; children, Patricia Nima (Prince)Mohammad, Michelle Pollard (Gerald Steele), Anthony Iles, Christopher, (Priscilla)Iles; Sherry Iles; grandchildren, John T. (Amina) Martin; Michael Iles, Aaron Iles, Ryan Iles and Kristen Iles; great grandson, Roman Preciado; Roxi's sister Dorothy A. Moore; two close cousins, Julia Bradley, Benjamin Napper, and a host of loving cousins, nieces, nephews, along with numerous acquaintances and loyal friends. Teddy will also be sorely missed by his longtime and faithful dog, Bella.