James “Tinker” Martin, 61, of Midland passed away on Sunday, December 7, 2014. He was born October 13, 1953 in Monahans to Bob “Pop” Martin and Beth Martin. He married the love of his life, Beverly Thomas, on October 4, 1975 in Andrews. Together, the couple raised two children, Lee and Amanda. Tinker was extremely active in their youth activities, especially softball and baseball, and touched the lives of many athletes he had the joy of coaching.He was a wonderful role model to his children and grandchildren all of whom were his pride and joy. One of his proudest moments was when he became Pappy. He was a walking historian who loved to share his historical knowledge with his oldest grandson.He was a dedicated, hardworking man and worked for Plains Marketing for 34 years. Tinker was a talented welder and never came across anything he couldn’t build or fix.His family will lovingly remember him as an immovable rock- a true friend to lean on yet incredibly stubborn. He was a teddy bear always ready to share a big hug and an inappropriate joke. Tinker was proud, honest, protective, and loyal- a true example of a leader and friend.He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Beverly Martin; son, Lee Martin and wife, Heather; daughter, Amanda Wells and husband, Greg; grandchildren, Kaden Martin, Kameron Martin, and Brynlee Wells, all of Midland, Texas; and his sister, Terri Abbott and husband, Jack, of Houston, Texas.He is preceded in death by his parents.The family will be accepting guests from 5:00pm-7:00pm at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home on Thursday, December 11th. Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 12th, at Cotton Flat Baptist Church at 10:00am with Robert Kepple officiating. Private graveside services will be held at Serenity Memorial Gardens.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwlech.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The American Heart Association or charity of your choice. ,