With hearts full of both sorrow and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Martin Sherwin Fields, who passed away peacefully on August 14, 2026, at the age of 74.

His wife, Deaconess Cynthia Fields, father, Deacon Thomas Fields, brother Michael, brother-in-law Zeke, sister-in-law Bessie Mae, and sister-in-law, First Lady Joyce Fields preceeded him in death.

Martin was born on July 23, 1952, in Dawn, Virgina to Irene and the late Thomas Fields. They later relocated their family to Brooklyn, New York in 1955 and again to Queens in 1964. As an adult, Martin relocated to New Jersey in 1990 and then to Virginia in 1996.

Martin demonstrated a passion for learning at an early age, attending the New York City public schools, later furthering his education and graduating from Baruch College in Manhattan, New York. Through dedication and perseverance, he earned a bachelor’s degree in business and built a distinguished career in procurement with MetLife, Circuit City, Alfa Laval, and The Commonwealth of Virginia, where he later retired in 2016. Colleagues admired him for his intellect, integrity, and commitment to excellence.

Martin was a devoted Christian, lifelong learner, and cherished member of Evangel Baptist Church located in Queens, New York where he served as the choir director for many years. He later joined Second Mt. Zion Baptist Church where he served as a faithful Deacon and Church Treasurer for a number of years. He was a Sunday School teacher and could be seen Sunday after Sunday shining at his craft of choir director for the Gospel Chorus, DJ Ragland Memorial Choir, Celebration Mass Choir, and Men’s Chorus, for which he also was their pianist for a few years. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, wisdom, and service.

Above all, Martin was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Cynthia Fields, whom he met during his time at MetLife. Their marriage of 42 years was built on love, faith, mutual respect, and unwavering commitment. They were inseparable.

Martin leaves behind three children, Kendra Fields, Shermaine Fields, and Shana Martins (Dami Martins); Eight grandchildren, Alajah Fields, Elijah Fields, Aliyah Jefferson-Fields, Alexis Fields, Kamryn Fields, Kennedy Fields, Elle Martins, and Lyla Martins; Two great-grandchildren, Savannah Fields and Kemari Bell; Mother, Irene Fields; One Brother, Pastor Marvin Fields; Two sisters-in-law, Janice Guy (Will Guy) and Gussie Golden (Clifton Golden); and a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives, and friends.

While our hearts mourn this loss, we take comfort in the words of Scripture: "Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord." (Matthew 25:23)