Billy James "Bear" Martin, age 72, formerly of East Prairie, died Tuesday, March 1, 2022, at his home in Sikeston.

Born October 28, 1949, at East Prairie, MO, to the late Harold James Martin and Bessie Mae Bone Martin, he was a 1967 graduate of East Prairie High School and then served his country as part of the US Army (Artillery Division) and fought in the Vietnam War from 1969-1971. He was an avid St. Louis Blues and St. Louis Cardinals fan.

Surviving his son, Michael (Kristy) Martin of Marble Hill; granddaughter, Aubrie Martin of Commercial Point, OH, and two sisters, Cheryl (Hoyt Carter) Grogan and Susie Berry of Illinois.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Willard "Dink" Martin; and his sisters, Caroline Johnson and Sarah Ruth Humphreys.

Graveside services with full military honors will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, March 13, 2022, at the Dogwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the "Resurrecting Lives Foundation" or to the charity of your choice.

McMikle Funeral Home of Sikeston is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mcmiklefuneralhome.com.