Martin

Helen Winifred Sones Martin, 100, of Sarver, passed peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025, at Concordia Lutheran Ministries in Cabot after a brief stay.

Born on Nov. 17, 1924, in Pittsburgh, Helen was the daughter of James Sones and Nellie (Findon) Sones.

Following high school, she graduated with an associate degree in business from Duff’s Business College and worked at Allegheny Ludlum during World War II, her own contribution to the Greatest Generation. In 1962, she and her husband, Don, began the successful operation of Don Martin Trucking Co. in Sarver.

In 1967, they began the development of Lernerville Speedway. After Don’s passing in 1993, she sold the trucking business. Helen remained loyal to Don and with the support of family and friends continued to operate the racetrack for another 10 years. During those years, she enhanced the track’s reputation and was recognized by numerous racing organizations for her outstanding contributions to the sport.

By 2004, it had become apparent to Helen that she was ready to retire. She would remind friends that she had “managed a payroll for 60 years” and it was time to move on. Helen was proud to still see Don Martin trucks on the road and Lernerville Speedway flourishing.

Being one of her favorite pastimes, Helen was ruthless in her approach to playing 500 Bid with friends. She loved to tell of the 37 different nations she had been fortunate to visit. Her most memorable trip being her sojourn to the Holy Land with several Western Pennsylvania ministers of the Methodist church.

Helen’s commitment to her community will not soon be forgotten. She was a loyal friend to Buffalo Township, Freeport Area School District, various local fire and ambulance companies, Order of the Eastern Star, and countless other organizations.

She was proud to be the oldest member of Zion Methodist Community Church, where she grew her faith and gave her life to Christ over her lifetime.

Helen Winifred Sones Martin is survived by her daughter, Patricia; grandson, Donald Paul Martin Roenigk (wife, Ashley); and great-grandson, Samuel Torres Roenigk.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Paul Martin.

MARTIN — Services for Helen Winifred Sones Martin, who died Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025, will be private.

Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Methodist Community Church, 438 Bear Creek Road, Sarver, PA 16055.

FOX FUNERAL HOME, Saxonburg, is honored to serve the Martin family.

For more information, please visit www.foxfuneralhomeinc.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.