Virginia Republicans are mourning Wednesday’s loss of long-time volunteer Lynn Fairchild Martin. A Bearing Drift post by her friends Dolores Switzer, Richard Crouse, Mike Wade, and Dexter Gains remembered their friend as fun loving and full of life.
The Lynchburg City Republican Committee, chaired by Wendell Walker, passed a resolution Thursday night in memory of Lynn who was an active committee member for years.
Lynn’s friends have filled Facebook with their thoughts and remembrances. Here are a few of those memories.
Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership
It is with heavy hearts that we share the loss of a cherished Sorensen alumna, Lynn Fairchild Martin. Lynn was a graduate of both PLP 2011 and CTP 2012. Lynn spent her life as an active participant in Republican politics and campaigns in the Lynchburg region and throughout Virginia. She is remembered as a force to be reckoned with, a thoughtful participant in bipartisan discussions, and a fierce friend, and she will be missed deeply. Our thoughts are with her brother Chris Fairchild (PLP 2008), nephew Hunter Fairchild (CLP 2008, PLP 2012), and the rest of her family and those who loved her.
Lynchburg City Republican Committee
Today, the City of Lynchburg and the Commonwealth of Virginia, lost a great woman Lynn Fairchild Martin, to the terrible disease of cancer. Republicans in the state mourn the loss but celebrate that she is now made new and with her Perry. Please cover her family and friends in prayer through this time. Thank you for the “groovy” memories Lynn. *Photo courtesy of Carla McCurdy Bream
Richard Crouse
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” –2 Timothy: 7. Heaven gained another angel in Lynn Fairchild Martin. May she bless the Saints as she blessed so may of us who knew her, and called her friend. You will be missed.
Julie Coggsdale
Heaven gained another angel today. I will miss my friend Lynn Fairchild Martin, her joy, laughter, smile , and fierce “family” loyalty are unmatched.
Gina Padrone
Thinking of Lynn Fairchild Martin today, her family, and friends – especially those from the JBI Class of 2010. Her enthusiasm was unmatched, she was always a joy to be around, and will be deeply missed by many from across the Commonwealth.
Jean Ann Bolling
Remembering with fondness one of the most dedicated, supportive friends I met along the political road. Lynn Fairchild Martin always had a smile and kind words. She endured so much with her cancer but I will always recall the stamina with which she faced the challenges and the way she was able to share nuggets of wisdom for those who knew her. Rest in peace, sweet lady.
Judi Lynch
With the heaviest of hearts that we’ve carried all day, we send you love and a wish for the peaceful rest that you have been waiting on, Lynn Fairchild Martin. “The Cool Kids” will always have a place set for you when we are together… Thank you for always knowing what to say to make us laugh and feel loved. It’s your turn, sweet friend, as you reunite with Perry and live in eternal glory. “Until we meet again….”
Sandy Liddy Bourne
This friend has taken wing. RIP Lynn Fairchild Martin, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
Mike Wade
A Hero, A Fighter, A Team Mate, A Lover of Life and a True Friend. This picture captures her spirit and personality that can not replaced. We love you Lynn Fairchild Martin! Till we meet again.
Cathy Bolden
Without a doubt tell someone that you love them! Lynn Fairchild Martin, you have gained your wings! Rest easy my friend!
John Hardy Willson
“Everyone’s tryin’ to get to the bar / The name of the bar, the bar is called Heaven / In Heaven the band plays our favorite song / They play it one more time they play it all night long.” Travel Well and in Peace Lynn.
Donald C. Williams
….over the last few days folks from around the Commonwealth have sent their sincere thoughts and prayers to our dear friend Lynn Fairchild Martin as she fought through the agony of end-stage cancer.
That battle has ended.
But let me be clear…….Cancer did not win.
Lynn has left her earthly home. But, as my faith teaches me – I am certain that she now lives on in Heaven.
Lynn was a lovely, smart, dedicated, sassy, caring woman who left a memory with everyone she met. I suspect she is holding court with Tucker (I am certain he has brought refreshments) and all her close friends and family who have gone on before her.
Requiescat in pace et in amore, Lynn.
Elizabeth Blake
I just found out that heaven has gained another angel. My friend Lynn Fairchild Martin lost her battle with cancer. I am grateful she is not suffering from pain anymore and is reunited with her great love Perry. I will miss Lynn’s bubbly personality and love for life. I remember when I first met Lynn in person at the Advance. She was so bubbly and sweet! I took this picture of her and my buddy William M. Stanley when he first ran for State Senate at a fundraiser with Governor McDonnell. I will miss her smile! You have your wings sweet friend!
Photo by Leonard Tengco
Stephen Parker, Democratic Sorensen Institute classmate
Lynn Fairchild Martin and I were classmates at The Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership. We spent many a night with our fellow classmates talking politics, sharing stories and drinking wine during our program and in the years after. One evening she called me to let me know she was in town and asked me to join her for dinner. After, she asked me to get a drink with her at the hotel she was staying.
We were about to walk in and she looked up at me and said “there are hundreds of Republican women here for our conference and we’re going to be drinking with them tonight.” I told her “there is no way I am going in there.” Three hours later, I was still there, Lynn was grinning ear to ear and telling everyone we met “he’s one of us, even though he doesn’t know it yet.” On my way home, she texted to thank me for being her favorite adjective – “groovy.”
That was Lynn. She went out of her way to make sure everyone around her felt like they belonged. When people enter our lives like Lynn – someone who cares deeply about their party and beliefs, but cares just as much about you whether you agree with them or not – partisanship becomes silly.
I may not have accepted Lynn’s (very serious) invitation that night to become a member of the Republican women’s caucus, but I will forever remember the example of friendship she set for all of her “Sorensen siblings” and so many others that were fortunate to know her.
Claudia Duck Tucker
I got to know her late, but what a hoot she was! Aside from her enthusiasm for life, I was so taken by her passion and unabated love for Perry. What a groovy chick she was.
C.V. Alpaugh
As I sit here writing this, I am in tears!! My heart is hurting but full knowing what an impact Lynn Fairchild Martin had on so many people and their lives!! She will be missed, she will always be loved but she will NEVER be forgotten! Lynn, thank you for being you and being “groovy”!! I love you , but I know you are now at peace and reunited with your Daddy and Perry!! Fly high and Rest In Peace!!
Dusty Hurley
Heaven got a little groovier today. My cousin, Lynn Fairchild Martin, was my definition of cool when I was a little kid. I thought she was the neatest and prettiest person ever. I spent so much time looking up to her as a kid as she showered me with attention, and made me feel so special and cool. She had a unique light of enthusiasm and a playful spirit that will not be soon forgotten by those who knew and loved her. She gave me great life advice and encouragement when I was a teenager, and always made sure I knew she supported me in the major events of my adult life. I’m thankful for her love and influence. She taught me that no matter what life throws at you, it can still be groovy ?? Hugs to my Aunt and all my cousins in Virginia-Love you all.
Cheryl Pope Key
I can’t even think of what to write tonight. I am just so sad I can’t even describe it. Lynn Fairchild Martin I am never going to be the same. I miss you.
Vivienne Smith
Tonight I am thinking about you Lynn Fairchild Martin and what a beautiful gift you gave to everyone who knew you. RIP my dear friend, you will never be forgotten. Hugs.
Matt Pope-Key
Today Lynn Fairchild Martin learned how to fly.
Heather Hannah Knopp
Lynn Fairchild Martin, we’re going to miss you! But you have left a legacy of service and dedication to Lynchburg, to Virginia, and to our great nation, that inspires and compels us. We can only hope to do as much to influence as many as you did. Thank you for the example, the friendship, and the great conversations. Enjoy Heaven, my friend. We’ll see you there some day.
Niki Boaz
Lynn Fairchild Martin you will be SO missed. Thank you for all the fun childhood memories. You made everything into an adventure, I’m so lucky to have had so many wonderful times with you and your family. Kelsey Martin Murphy and Chip Martin y’all are in my thoughts and prayers, if you need anything please let me know!
Larry E. Grant
Just heard that my long time friend, Lynn Fairchild Martin passed away today. She and her boyfriend, Perry Karnes were great people and I will miss them both now. Rest in Peace friends…
Evan Feinman
My friend Lynn Fairchild Martin and I may not have agreed about much politically, but we agreed we liked each other’s company and that talking politics with smart people who disagree with us makes us all better citizens. She left us behind today after a long battle with cancer, but she leaves a wonderful legacy here with us.
Rosemary McKenney Mahan
When acquaintances die, you feel sad, but when true friends die, your world stops for a while. RIP Lynn Fairchild Martin. I will miss your bubbly personality, your fighting spirit, your zest for life, and your unwavering faith. I will miss your laughter, your mischievous side, your search for fun and adventure, and your strong integrity. But most of all, I will miss your smile, warm hugs, long and thoughtful discussions, lunch over a burger and beer, and love for your family and pets. I am better for knowing you and will forever try to channel your strength and conviction. Fair winds and following seas, my friend!
Devon Key
Today at 11:30am Lynn Fairchild Martin my godmother passed away. I feel like I have lost a piece of me, but I know she is no longer suffering and is now a guardian angel. I love you so much Lynn, I know you’re with people you love and are so much happier now. Rest In Peace. Hugs! Hugs!
Brad Martin
Tracey and I learned that our dear friend Lynn Fairchild Martin passed away this morning after a terrible bout with cancer. Made me remember so fondly our time at Sorensen in 2011, and all the times since, as well as wonderful Tiffany. People, love your people.
Lynn loved that picture of her with her daddy. I loved how Lynn called him “daddy.”
Rest in peace, sweetheart.
Colleen Schoemer Smith
Although every member of our Sorensen Family is special, some of my most vivid memories and moments feature Lynn Fairchild Martin. A member of the 2011 Political Leaders Program, she came to opening weekend at Yorktown’s Freight Shed on crutches in the pouring rain, no umbrella (couldn’t have carried it if she had one). This represented her determination to be a part of something that she believed to be critical to her calling. We will all miss you Lynn. Your entire Sorensen family.
Nicole Manley
#TBT to that time I sat through the longest convention ever, but at least I got to sit with Lynn Fairchild Martin. So sorry to hear of her passing today. Our little political world won’t be the same.
LaTanya Carter
Instead of sharing a pic of Lynn and I together, I want to share this video about creatures because I know she would have loved it as much as I do! Until we meet again Lynn! I will expect you to meet me at the pearly gates when its my time.
Alex Jackson
Going to miss the times with Lynn Fairchild Martin. She was always in a good mood and up for whatever our group decided to do. Our nights at Oakwood Country Club, the Dahlia, movie nights with Kings Island delivery, and the list goes on. Rest In Peace.
Greg Nash
My Long time friend Lynn Fairchild Martin Lost her fight with Cancer Today! Please pray for her family and friends. Hope you’re “Groovy” Now! I’ll never forget playing Trouble and Sorry at the CAV! Our Spontanious trips to Roanoke for a Krispy Kreme Run! Always smiling even when I knew u were hurting! I’ll miss you!
Marina Guenther
See you on the other side dear Lynn Fairchild Martin, you will be terribly missed. Thanks for so many memories (and desserts) throughout the years.
Kathy Hoke
Sending extra prayers up at this time for my friend since High School.. Lynn Fairchild Martin and her family, Lynn may you feel all the love and a warm hugs sending you on your way ,until we see each other again.. love you!
Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership photo
Yonnie Schewel
I just found out that Lynn Fairchild Martin passed away this morning. For many years, she and I were part of a solid group of friends who celebrated happy hour every Tuesday evening, without fail, at Oakwood Country Club. For many years that’s what we did on Tuesday evenings… Go to Oakwood, catch up with each other, have a drink, eat dinner, talk about everything, make a lot of jokes, have fun and then go home. That’s how I got to know her. She was a wonderful and faithful friend. I will miss her. We will all miss her.
Cover photo: Lynn Martin and Mike Thomas
Burgers With Bill | June 2017
Photo by Lynn R. Mitchell
