REV. James (JIM) Campbell MARTELL, BTH.

March 29, 1934 – June 21, 2018

SPRINGHILL, NS: It is with heavy hearts to announce the passing of Rev. Jim Martell. Jim was born in Halifax March 29, 1934 and was the sixth child to be born to Annie (Campbell) Martell (predeceased) and Jim Baker (Predeceased).

Due to family circumstances, Jim was raised in foster homes in the Halifax area and although his childhood was difficult, he always expressed positivity. His most fond memories were living with his last foster family, including his dog Tony, where his favorite foster father was the grounds keeper of the Public Gardens. Jim attended St. Patrick’s and Queen Elizabeth High School, Pine Hill Divinity College, ordained into the United Church of Canada (1964), Bachelor of Theology Degree (1970). Jim’s faith mentor was Rev. Milton Fraser; a friend’s father who showed him the love of God, how to love himself and others, as well as how to be a man, husband, father and pastor. Jim’s first and only girlfriend, and love of his life, was Marjorie Sawler (predeceased 2002). She was his wife, best friend and ministry partner, using her music to teach others about God, alongside Jim. They were married June 17, 1961 at West End Baptist Church in Halifax. Jim’s calling in ministry lead them to many United Churches throughout Nova Scotia. He ministered to thousands of people in Collingwood, Sambro, Springhill, Timberlea, Goodwood and Halifax, all while supporting their lives and faith journey. Jim’s passion was to help others, doing this through his gift of listening with his heart. 

His values of giving and caring for others were instilled in his children; Kathy (Bob Stevens) Collingwood NS, Karen (Dr. Clyde Hourtovenko) Sudbury ON, and Kendall (Janice Oliver) Spryfield NS. Over his years of ministry, Jim and Marjorie made everyone feel welcome in their home. They together supported their congregations, committed to all through leadership, music, church groups, choirs, youth activities, festivals of faith, gatherings at the church manse, and always displayed an open door, a meal, a place to stay and a big hug. Jim was always known for his zest for life. He loved people and it showed through his smile and affection. He had great love and respect for many in the community, as shown by the ongoing connections over the years. Jim loved to visit his friends and congregation members, enjoying tea and a biscuit or cookie, as his favourite saying was always; "put the tea pot on!" He listened to any and all problems, while offering support at any time of the day or night. Jim truly loved his family. His life changed with the loss of Marjorie, one year after his retirement, as she succumbed to cancer. He never stopped loving or missing her. Over the years his own health challenged him, yet never kept him away from his calling, as he continued to care for others until his mind no longer could.

He was proud of his three children (Kathy, Karen and Kendall), grandchildren (Cody, Chad (Brooke), and Amy Stevens; Lauren, Tayler and Cameron Hourtovenko; Troy, Phoenix and Diamond Martell) and great grandchild (Cassidy Stevens). One of the biggest challenges in his life was to find his birth family. With the help of Marjorie, he was able to find who they were and was able to connect with two siblings; Peter and Gordon Martell, before their passing. He also found out about other siblings; Walter, Gerard and Cecelia, who had already passed. Jim was thrilled to find a great niece, Rene (Vic Boymook), who lovingly called him "Uncle Jimmy." Later in life, he found nephew Peter (Ellen) Martell (and his family; Steve, Christy, Ashely, Geoff, and Greg, whom he was not able to meet in person due to the condition of his health. He was so grateful to find family, which was of high importance to him, as not knowing who he belonged to was a major life challenge. He is now at peace and has "gone home" to be with "my Margie," where he had longed to be since her passing. He is in God’s loving arms, undoubtedly singing and at the tea party that Marjorie has had planned for him. Jim will be profoundly missed by his children and grandchildren, sister-in-law, Beryl (Harold Andres), great nieces and nephews (Debbi, Pam, John, Andrea and their families), friends from Springhill, Timberlea, Goodwood and Halifax who has stayed connected over the years, friends Norma MacPherson, and Bill Hale and the "Boys from Halifax" as well as his dog "Squeaky," who gave him unconditional love to help heal his broken heart.

Predeceased by his wife (Marjorie), Mother-in Law (Erma (Giffen) Sawler), Father -in- law (William Sawler), Mother (Annie Campbell Martell), siblings; Walter, Gerard, Gordon, Peter, Cecelia Martell, foster parents Winnie and Richard Griffiths, foster-siblings Jean Morris (Eddie Morris) and Ken Griffiths, and life-long friend Bob MacPherson.

Thank you to all "the girls" (Dorothy, Karla, Barb, Allison, Tammy, and Rhonda) and the other great staff, including Dr. Zaremba at High Crest who have loved and taken care of Dad over the last 5 years, as well as all the friends who visited him there. A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Aden Carey, Sackville NS, for his care for both mom and dad over the years.

Funeral arrangements will be in the care of A.H Brown Funeral Home, 5 McFarlane St., Springhill, NS. (902-597-2361). Jim wanted a celebration on his passing, this will take place with visitation Friday July 27th 2018 from 3-9 pm at A.H. Brown Funeral Home. His service will be Sunday July 29, 2018 at 3:30 pm from St. Andrews Wesley United Church, Springhill NS., Reception to follow in church hall.

A family burial will take place in the Family Fairview Cemetery, Halifax NS on Monday July 30th, 2018.

As Jim closes his final service on earth, his benediction and blessing to you all: "And now may Grace, Mercy and Peace, from God our Father, to Christ our Savior, and in the strength of the Holy Spirit, abide with us, both now and forever more, Amen"

Sharing of memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting Jim's online memorial at www.brownsfuneralhome.com or through the A.H. Brown Funeral Home Facebook Page.