Jalen Jaquan Martin, a cherished father, son, brother, and friend, was born on February 27, 2000, in Jacksonville, North Carolina. With a heart full of love and a spirit that touched all who knew him, Jalen’s journey on this earth came to a close on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in his beloved hometown of Jacksonville.

Throughout his life, Jalen was a beacon of warmth and kindness. He is survived by his devoted parents, Yolanda Sharpless and Quincy Martin. Jalen’s siblings—Ariyan Pridgen, Tavon Sharpless, Jayceon Chamberlain, and Jamaz Martin; loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who stood by him and whose lives he brightened in return. 

A celebration of Jalen's life will take place at 1:00 pm on Friday, April 3, 2026, at Lees Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Maple Hill. This service promises to be a moment for all who loved him to come together, share stories, and honor the memory of a young man whose presence brought joy. Following the service, Jalen will be laid to rest at the Maple Hill Community Cemetery.

Friends and relatives are also invited to pay their respects during the viewing from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the Dunn Funeral Home Chapel. In those moments, surrounded by those who cared deeply for him, the quiet reflection will echo the love that will forever surround Jalen’s memory.

Though Jalen’s physical presence is no longer with us, the imprint he left—a reflection of his kindness, his love, and his unique spirit—will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. His story is one of a life too brief yet infinitely beautiful, reminding us all of the preciousness of every shared moment.