Martin Banks Carson

Martin was embraced in the arms of the Lord on Tuesday June 24th, 2025. His family and friends will miss him greatly.

Born in South Carolina in September 1934 to James and Janet Carson, Martin grew up in the Town of Kershaw where he enjoyed the fruits of living in a small rural community. Some of his favorite things were swimming, hunting, playing football and baseball.

Upon graduating high school, Martin attended Clemson for a couple of semesters before reporting to West Point. This led to a 21-year career as an officer in the Army in the Corps of Engineers. Along the way, Martin also earned a master’s in electrical engineering from Purdue, attended Command and Staff College and the Army War College. Martin served in Vietnam and his awards and decorations include Legion of Merit, 2 awards, Bronze Star Medal, 3 awards, Purple Heart, Air Medal, Army Commendation medal, and service awards. Martin retired as a Lieutenant Colonel.

Martin met his wife Valerie while stationed at the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg. It was a blind date that worked out well, because at the time of his passing, they were married 65 years. Martin is survived by one son, Craig, five grandsons, Aaron, Cameron, Brandon, Dayton, and Easton, two great granddaughters, Hazel and Gavin and a brother, Kenneth Carson (Sybil) of Camden, S.C. In addition to his parents, Martin is predeceased by his brother, Mac Carson.

Never one to remain idle, Martin’s Military career led him to work in the civilian construction industry over the course of the next 26 years. Martin completed more than 150 hotel projects and at least 50 restaurants.

Martin retired for good in 2004 and enjoyed living with his wife in the suburban Atlanta home they purchased prior to his retirement.

A graveside inurnment service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 6, 2025, in the Kershaw City Cemetery, 190 Kirkland Avenue, Kershaw, S.C. 29067, with full military honors.

The family will greet friends, following the graveside service in the former J. M. Carson home, 316 East Richland Street, Kershaw, S.C. 29067

Arrangements are under the care of Baker Funeral Home, Kershaw, S.C.