Bernard Ruel Martin, 87, a resident of Rockingham, passed away on Sunday, August 4, 2024 at his home.

Mr. Martin was born on November 30, 1936 in Rockingham County and was a son of the late E. Ruel and Ruby Frances Brunk Martin. He graduated from Eastern Mennonite High School in 1955. In 1967, he established Belmont Builders, Inc., developed and designed Belmont Estates. He built houses for over 35 years, after which he continued to design and draw house plans for family and friends well into his 80’s. Bernard lived a life of service and dedication to helping others through volunteering for various organizations including Mennonite Disaster Service, Habitat for Humanity (Central Valley), Church Builders Guild, Roberta Webb Child Care Center, Park View Credit Union, and Highland Retreat. He was an active member of Harrisonburg Mennonite Church. Bernard sang for 36 years with the Singing Messengers and also sang with the Mennonite Hour and the Table Singers among other groups. His love for singing and music also called him to lead music for various church locations and the Harmonia Sacra Gatherings.

On July 21, 1956, he married Joan Clemens Musselman Martin who survives.

Also surviving are his children, Larry E. Martin and wife Becky of Rockingham, Michael R. Martin and wife Yvonne of Rockingham, Kristina “Tina” Grove and husband Andy of Dickerson, MD; siblings, Arlin Martin and wife Janet of Crozet, Gerald Martin and wife Carolyn of Harrisonburg, Helen Driver of Harrisonburg; Nelson Martin and wife Martha of Indianapolis, IN; grandchildren, Jonathan Martin (Ariana), Caleb Martin, Aaron Martin (Crystal), Daniel Martin (Tamara), Dylan Grove, Brittany Grove, Blair Grove, Austin Grove (fiancé Anna); and great-grandchildren, Xavi, Erin, Benson, Bodie, Adria, Summer, Lucas, Jaden, Olivia, and Hudson.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Martin was preceded in death by two sisters-in-law, Sophia Martin, Vivian Martin; and a great granddaughter Claire Magnolia Martin.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Highland Retreat Scholarship Fund, 14783 Highland Drive, Bergton, VA 22811, Mennonite Disaster Service, 583 Airport Road, Lititz, PA 17543 or to Habitat for Humanity (Central Valley), 205 Dry River Road, Bridgewater, Virginia 22812.

Service times will be announced at a later date.

Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com.

McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.