Dana Ray Martin, DMD, MS, of Knoxville, passed away peacefully on the morning of July 17 at the age of 73. Born on April 5, 1952, in Fort Knox, Ky., Dr. Martin lived a life defined by devotion—to his faith, family, community, and patients.
Dr. Martin, who was a lifelong learner and leader in his field, earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky and his doctor of dental medicine degree from the University School of Dental Medicine. He went on to receive both a master’s degree and a certificate in the specialty of orthodontics from the University of Pennsylvania and later pursued a law degree at the University of Louisville School of Law.
For over four decades, Dr. Martin practiced orthodontics with excellence and compassion, most notably as a sole practitioner in Knoxville for more than 30 years. He was a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and held membership and fellowship in numerous professional organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontists and the World Federation of Dental Sciences.
Dr. Martin was a man of deep Catholic faith, serving as an ecumenical minister and a devoted reader at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. Faithfully seated in the front-right pew on Sundays, he worshiped with quiet reverence and unwavering love for his Lord.
As a Fourth Degree Knight of the Knights of Columbus, Dr. Martin embodied the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism, finding joy and purpose in serving others.
Dr. Martin was married to the love of his life, Gina. His devoted love for his bride was immeasurable and eternal. She was his everything. He also was a devoted father to Russell (Amber), Katie (Wesley), and Luke (Elizabeth), and a beloved “Pops” to his grandchildren—Nathan, Sadie, Clark, Oliver, Mac, Charlie, and Cooper. “What was your favorite thing about Pops?” “When he would take me to church,” Mac would say.
Dr. Martin cherished moments spent with his family, whether fly fishing or traveling to sunny destinations, or his Knights of Columbus Bible study group of men he treasured dearly.
His life was a testament to faith, humility, and love. His light will continue to guide all who knew him, and his family will hold him in their hearts until they meet again in eternity.
Dr. Martin was preceded in death by his parents, Ruth Lilian Duncan Martin and John Carlile Martin; his brother, Dr. John Carlile Martin Jr.; and his niece, Laura Ashley Webb. He is survived by his sister, Sherian Louise Martin; his niece, Lisa Anne Webb; and a host of extended family and dear friends who will miss him profoundly.
A funeral Mass celebrating Dr. Martin’s life was held at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus in Knoxville on July 29. Donations in Dr. Martin’s memory may be made to the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus at www.shcathedral.org.