William Travis (Bill) Martin, Ph.D., passed away on June 4, 2023 at age 84 in Wellington, Texas. He was born Sept. 24, 1938, and grew up on the family farm near Justin, Denton County, Texas.
Bill and his wife, Sandy, lived in Wellington, where they operated a registered Texas Longhorn cattle and Tennessee Walking Horse ranch, Running Arrow Farm, LLC, after their retirement. Bill thoroughly enjoyed spending his time outside on the farm and was active in managing both the website and producing most of the literature to promote their livestock business. Sandy continues to operate Running Arrow Farm, LLC.
He graduated from Northwest High School in Justin, and later obtained a bachelor’s degree from North Texas State University, a master’s degree from Sul Ross State University, and his doctorate from Colorado State University. During his professional careers, he worked as a psychologist for the states of Illinois, South Dakota and Kansas in the MHMR environments. Furthermore, he is known for his contributions as an occasional university instructor, community education instructor and as a private trainer in business and human resource areas. He notably authored three professional books, numerous newspaper columns, several professional journal articles and numerous training manuals on professional and technical topics. Always known for his strong work ethic and technical skills, Bill spent time working as a building contractor, as well as a landscape and irrigation contractor.
Bill was a celebrated U.S. Army Veteran, who served as a pilot in the Civil Air Patrol in Garden City, Kan. in the 1970s. After leaving the military, he was a licensed private pilot, charter flight pilot, an active member of the National Rifle Association and firm believer in our second amendment rights as U.S. citizens.
Bill will be remembered fondly for his rebellious and outspoken spirit, sense of humor, annual Christmas letters and love of nature and of animals.
Bill was preceded in death by his father, Travis Elwood Martin, in 1978 in Ft. Worth, Texas; and his mother, Grace Eugenia Martin, in 1996 in Abilene, Texas.
Survivors include his wife, Sandra Jo Martin, of Wellington; his brother and sister-in-law, Robert Eugene and Lora Patricia (Patty) Martin, of Fort Davis, Texas; and his daughter, Monica Lara Martin, of Gypsum, Colo. Surviving grandchildren include Bailey Autumn Humphrey, Lindsey Ryan Humphrey and Logan Gilbert Oke.
Cremation provided by Adams Funeral Home. Remains will be divided among the family members.
An “Informal” Celebration of Life will be held from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. June 23, 2023, at the First Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 901 Bowie Street, Wellington.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests monetary donations be sent to P.O. Box 271, Wellington, TX 79095.
