Martin L. Mogford, Jr., 68, of Midland, died on Tuesday, December 11, 2001, in a Houston hospital. Memorial services will be at 11:00 AM Friday, December 14, 2001, at the Christian Life Center, Midland, with Pastor Billy Raies, officiating. He was born on March 13, 1933 in Kilgore, Texas to Martin and Elizabeth Mogford. Martin moved with his family to Odessa and graduated from Odessa High School in 1951. He earned a Bachelor's degree in English from Eastern New Mexico University in 1956 and a Master's degree in English and Drama from New Mexico Highland University in 1971. Martin was a veteran of the United States Army, and a retired teacher, having taught many years in the Midland public schools. His career included teaching English and Drama at Midland High School, and serving as the English Department Chairman at Midland Alamo Junior High School, and teaching English literature at Midland Junior College. Martin was active in many professional teachers' organizations, and held leadership positions in the Texas State Teachers' Association and the Midland Classroom Teachers' Association. Martin participated in many productions of Midland Community Theater and enjoyed taking part in Midland's yearly Summer Mummers. Martin was an avid traveler and always welcomed opportunities to learn or to teach others. His extensive travels included trips to Europe, Russia, Mexico and Scandinavia. Martin was a devoted father and grandfather, and faithful servant of Christ. Survivors include his daughter and son-in-law, Margaret and Todd Blackmon of Houston; his brother and sister-in-law, James and Ann Mogford of Albuquerque, New Mexico; his aunts, Hester and Hella Mae Williams of Midland; two loving grandchildren and 4 nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, Martin's family asks that memorials be made to: KSBJ Christian Radio, P.O. Box 3487, Humble, Texas 77347, the American Cancer Society or charity of choice. Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home.,
