Olive 'Ollie' Martin

In remembrance of Olive Martin, known as Ollie by most family and friends, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home Friday, October 13, 2023. Ollie was born September 2, 1928 in Medina, Ohio to Pehr and Myrtle Carter Martin and was reared by her aunt and uncle, Jeannette and Miles Washington. She was raised in Medina by her Aunt and Uncle Jeannette and Miles Washington. Ollie attended grade school in her younger years and graduated from Medina Senior High School which is now known as the Medina County Administration Building. After graduating, Ollie worked in the Janitorial Department for the Northern Ohio Telephone Company, where she held that position until the strike of 1952. Her next position was on the Switch Board Information. Once the strike was over, Ollie became the first black telephone operator in Medina. Following that position Ollie became the training supervisor for information and long-distance calls. Ollie proudly worked at the GTE phone company for 30 years. She held that position until she retired in 1985. Ollie was a member of the Second Baptist Church where she sang in the Senior Choir and served on The Senior Usher Board, helping with the food bank. Then she worked for the church as Treasurer, serving side by side with her sister, Gerry Rucker. Ollie worked part-time with her sister, Gerry until they retired and enjoyed life to the fullest until the passing of Gerry in 2019. Ollie is preceded in death by her sisters, Pearl Yates, Girldine Rucker, and Ana Jane Martin; brothers, Charles L. Martin and Pehr Lee Martin. She leaves to cherish her memory; Gloria D. Johnson, Brenda J. Brown-Alexander, Herb and (Jamie) Porter, David and (Stephanie) Rucker, Shelly & (Marlow) Harper; sister-in-law, Beatrice L. Green; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, great nieces and nephews; and a host of relatives and friends. Family will receive friends Friday, October 20, 2023, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the church, followed by a service at 11 a.m., at The Second Baptist Church, 451 Bronson St., Medina, Ohio 44256. Pastor Arthur Ruffin Sr. Officiating. Online condolences may be made at www.waitefuneralhome.com.