Rachel R. Martin

In Loving Memory of Rachel Rena Martin

With heavy hearts, we announce the transition of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Rachel Rena Martin, who entered eternal rest on Friday, February 21, 2025.

Rachel was born on July 19, 1957, at District of Columbia General Hospital to the late Odell and Mabel Ruth Daniel. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, Odell Daniel Jr. and Kathleen Daniel.

Rachel lived a life deeply rooted in faith, with an unwavering love for Jesus Christ. She was never ashamed to share the gospel and was always eager to testify about the power of God’s word and its ability to transform lives. From the moment she gave her life to Christ as a teenager, she embraced her faith wholeheartedly, even introducing her parents to her newfound love for the Lord. Her devotion to Christ remained steadfast throughout her life, and she carried that faith until her final breath.

Educated in the District of Columbia Public School System, Rachel later attended secretarial school before beginning her career at American Security Bank. She remained in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area until the early 1990s when she relocated to Virginia Beach, VA. There, she worked for the Christian Broadcasting Network before transitioning to a position with the Department of Social Services Child Support Enforcement, from which she retired in 2009.

Rachel was a three-time cancer survivor, a true warrior who faced each battle with grace, courage, and unwavering faith. Despite living with pain from a surgical procedure gone awry over 25 years ago, she never allowed her suffering to overshadow her joy. She continued to smile, to rejoice, and to stand as a living testament to God’s love and miracles.

She is survived by sisters Margie Hewitt-Smith and Sharon Smith. Her brothers are Odell Daniel and Ronnie Daniel. Her ex-husband, Michael Martin, and her beloved children: Cyleta Baylor, Dell Prince, Rachel Prince, and Amina Martin. She also leaves behind 10 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and a host of extended family and cherished friends.

Today, we celebrate Rachel’s life and honor the sacrifices she made as a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and extraordinary friend. She was a light in the lives of those who knew her, and her legacy of faith, love, and resilience will live on.

Rest well in the bosom of Christ until we meet again. Love eternally