Gene Lesley Martin II The earthly journey of Gene Lesley Martin II, 52, drew to a close unexpectedly due to a pulmonary embolism on February 4, 2023. Gene began his journey on November 29, 1970, in Victoria, Texas. He was the second of three children, born to Gene L. Martin and Mary Jean Martin. Gene graduated from Victoria High School in 1989. While in high school, he was an athletic trainer for all sports and was a friend to many. He then followed the legacy of his grandfather, mother, and older brother and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Southwest Texas State University. After graduating from college, he had a calling from God to join the Peace Corps, where he was stationed in Ecuador. He felt strongly before leaving that he was certain to meet his future wife while on this mission, and he did. Gene met the love of his life, Shaila, as she too was a Peace Corps volunteer headed to Ecuador. He remarked that he knew as soon as he met Shaila that she was 'The One.' He just couldn't believe that he had met and was going to marry someone who was more talkative than both his mother and sister combined. Gene was reserved, but when he did speak up or chime in, it was incredibly enlightening and impactful. Shaila drew out the best qualities in Gene, and their relationship flourished in love, light, and service to others. They returned to the United States and married on May 25, 1996. Gene worked for the San Marcos Housing Authority for 27 years as a Social Worker. Gene and Shaila were blessed to have four beautiful children: Trace (22), Truett (20), Tyger (18), and Tate (15). Gene's time here was short, but he was intentional with his time.