In Memory

James Forrest (Red) Martin

James Forrest (Red) Martin

James Forrest (Red) Martin Jr., of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 
September 26, 1937 - October 23, 2022

James Forrest Martin, Jr., age 85, passed away on Sunday, October 23, 2022 surrounded by his family. Beloved husband of Sara Primola Martin for more than 50 years; loving father to his two daughters Renee Gebben, and her husband Brenden, and Margaret “Meg” Babic and her husband Dan; treasured grandfather of Conner and Parker Gebben and Dylan, Abbey and Brooke Babic.

He was born to James Forrest Martin Sr. and Dorothy Fisher Smith on September 26, 1937 in Charlotte, NC. Jim graduated from Broughton High School in Raleigh, NC, where a plaque with his photo and athletic accomplishments still hangs on the wall of their sports complex. He played football at Chowan College before serving in the Air Force and then attending North Carolina State.

Jim’s career in architecture began in Washington, DC with the construction of Children’s Hospital and went on to include several notable projects including work on Marriott Properties, Warren General Hospital and UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. A highlight of his career was working with Philip Johnson as the site architect to build Pittsburgh’s PPG Place. We will forever think of him as we view the lighted spires he contributed to Pittsburgh’s nighttime skyline.

He enjoyed sailing on the Chesapeake and Potomac and later on his sailboat, the Andrea Lynn, at Lake Arthur. He loved fly fishing and had recently become very dedicated to his fly-tying hobby. However, time spent with his family was the most cherished of all. Whether it be camping and fishing trips, watching football on TV, pumpkin-carving or even dressing up in costume to entertain his grandkids, he would always put a smile on the faces of those he loved. His love, patience and support for his family were immeasurable and he will be missed dearly.

Jim is also survived by his siblings Janet (Dick) Scott, Jean (Mark) Johnson, Doug (Nancy) Smith, Barry Martin and in-laws Bernadine Naughton, Adele (Albert) Uhryniak, Carol Primola, as well as many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers-in-law Joseph Naughton and Thomas Primola.

Source of obituary: Beinhauer Family Funeral Homes,
McMurray, Pennsylvania.