Jerry Martin 86, of Geneva, formerly of Ottawa, passed away on Friday, August 5, 2022 at The Landings Senior Living in Batavia. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday August 9, 2022 at the Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa. Funeral services will be private. Jerry was born on October 4, 1935 in Charleston, IL to Lee Roy and Helen (Shriver) Martin. He received his Master’s Degree from Eastern Illinois University. Jerry was a Veteran of the US Army. He was a beloved art teacher in the Marseilles School System, where he taught K-12 for 35 years. He was also a gifted professional Jazz musician for over 50 years, playing all over the U.S. Mr. Martin spearheaded the Odyssey of the Minds gifted art program for students in the Marseilles School system. He inspired decades of students to use their creativity and explore their gifts. Jerry was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church in Geneva. He enjoyed fishing, camping, music and art. He is survived by five children, Nichole (Doug) McVey of Geneva, Steve Cunningham of Florida, David Martin of Florida, Michael (Sherry) Martin of Ottawa, and Kelly Johnson of Ottawa; nine grandchildren; and three great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Jim Martin. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Marseilles Elementary School or the Alzheimer’s Association.