Honoring a Legacy of Community Service: The E.W. Martin II Endowed Memorial Scholarship

The Mary Lyon Foundation is proud to support the E.W. Martin II Endowed Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to the remarkable life and enduring legacy of our neighbor Edgar W. Martin II. Edgar, who called Shelburne Falls home before settling in Ashfield, made meaningful contributions to the West County community, leaving a lasting impression that continues to inspire.

Born on August 4, 1955, as the second of five children, Edgar was deeply ingrained in the fabric of his community from an early age, participating in Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and little league baseball. In 1976, Edgar married his high school sweetheart, Beth Burrows, and together they built a life centered around family and service in Ashfield, where they raised their three children: Brianna, Walter, and Barrett. Edgar founded E.W. Martin Electric in 1979, a business synonymous with quality and reliability in the region. Beyond his professional success, Edgar was known for his generous nature and his dedication to helping others.

Edgar’s contributions to the community were numerous and heartfelt. He volunteered as a little league coach for his younger brothers, Ty and Troy, and later for his sons, Walter and Barrett. He supported local organizations and events, offering his time, labor, and resources to causes such as the Trinity Church of Shelburne Falls, the Ashfield Fall Festival, Relay for Life, and the Mohawk Athletic Association, just to name a few. One of Edgar’s most beloved traditions was placing the Christmas tree atop Poet’s Seat Tower in Greenfield, a custom he maintained from 1980 until his passing in 2007. His infectious smile, quick wit, and readiness to lend a helping hand made him a cherished community member.

Edgar’s family established the E.W. Martin II Memorial Scholarship to celebrate his life and his values. Initially funded through a series of charity golf tournaments, they eventually partnered with the Mary Lyon Foundation to sustain and manage the scholarship for years to come. This fund is not solely focused on academic achievement; it seeks to recognize and aid Mohawk Trail Regional High School graduates who, like Edgar, are dedicated to giving back to their community and demonstrate a genuine desire to help others.

Through the continued generosity of the West County community and the stewardship of the Mary Lyon Foundation, the E.W. Martin II Endowed Memorial Scholarship remains a lasting tribute to a man who never hesitated to help those in need. Edgar’s family, friends, and the wider community remember him as someone who made everyone feel important and was always willing to support anyone.

Vicki Martin, Edgar’s sister, shares her thoughts on the scholarship’s lasting influence: “Edgar never missed an opportunity to help others, and the Mary Lyon Foundation has ensured that his warmhearted spirit lives on. This scholarship has already benefited many students who reflect Edgar’s compassion and dedication to community. We are confident it will continue to honor his memory for years, inspiring future generations to make a meaningful difference.”

Contributions to the scholarship fund can be made through the Mary Lyon Foundation, ensuring that Edgar W. Martin II’s spirit of service and altruism will continue to benefit future generations. Edgar’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and through the students who will carry forward his commitment to making the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.