05/19/2025

Obituary for Rev. Hardin M. Martin, Sr.

Father and Father-in-Law of Hardin Martin Jr. and Karla Gregory-Martin of Gregory-Martin Funeral Home; Father of Herrick Martin of H.M. Martin Funeral Home

Rev. Hardin Murphy Martin, Sr. entered this world on December 21, 1942, in Cleveland, Ohio, born to the late Emmett C. Sr. and Mattye Hairston Martin. He was raised in the Glenville neighborhood before relocating to the Mount Pleasant area, where he formed lifelong bonds with his older brother Calvin and close friends. Hardin attended Cleveland Public Schools and graduated from John Adams High School.

From a young age, Hardin developed a deep love for history—curious about where things began and how they would evolve. This passion for learning followed him throughout his life. He attended Tennessee State University, where he joined the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, and later earned his mortuary science degree from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. His educational journey continued with courses at Ashland Theological Seminary, Hiram College, and Cleveland State University—a reflection of his genuine love for learning.

Hardin was a dedicated Mason for many years and a proud member of St. Bartholomew Lodge and El Hasa Temple.

In 1965, Hardin became a father to his daughter, Manana Robinson. His life was forever changed when he met Rosary Henry in the fall of 1967. The two were married on his birthday, December 21, 1968. From their union came two sons, Hardin Martin Jr. and Herrick Mansion Martin.

Before establishing his own funeral home, Hardin worked at Strowder’s Funeral Home and Watson’s Funeral Home, where he sharpened his craft. In 1969, he and his father opened the doors to H. M. Martin Funeral Home. Together with Rosary, his devoted wife of 56 years, they operated the business for nearly 40 years, serving families with dignity and care. Even in retirement, Hardin remained hands-on—respected by many as one of the finest embalmers in the city.

Hardin also faithfully served as a deacon for more than 20 years at Epiphany Catholic Church, St. Cecilia Catholic Church, and St. Agnes, Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Emmett Calvin Martin, Jr.

Rev. Hardin M. Martin, Sr. departed this life on May 13, 2025. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife Rosary; children Manana Robinson (Leotis), Hardin Jr. (Karla), and Herrick (Gyta); grandchildren Austin, Justin, Landon, Alexis, Hayden, Hazel, Hardin III, and Haley; five great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Visitation will be held on Monday, May 19, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at St. Agnes Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, located at 6800 Lexington Avenue in Cleveland, Ohio. A Funeral Mass will take place the following day, Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM, also at St. Agnes Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Highland Park Cemetery, 21400 Chagrin Boulevard, Highland Heights, Ohio 44122.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rev. Hardin M. Martin, Sr.’s name to St. Agnes Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church. The Funeral Mass will be livestreamed on the church’s website on the day of the service.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of H.M. Martin Funeral Home, INC.