Suvechha Sarkar
Christy Martin’s journey of survival and success has long been remembered for her resilience and bravery. She was attacked by her ex-husband, James V. Martin, AKA Jim, in November 2010. During that time, she had almost lost her life but succeeded in saving herself. Apart from the community, the crime left her parents, Joyce Faye and Johnny Salters Jr., completely shocked. The episode titled ‘Christy Martin — The Fight of Her Life’ of CBS’ ’48 Hours’ dives deeper into the case and its emotional aftermath. It also briefly focuses on the strained relationship that Christy said she once had with her parents.
Christy Martin’s Parents Watched Her Chase Her Dreams Before She Faced a Nightmare
Joyce Faye and Johnny Salters Jr., lovingly known as John, were overjoyed when they welcomed their daughter, Christy Martin, into the world on June 12, 1968. They resided in Itmann, West Virginia, and Christy grew up with her brother, Randall John Salters, affectionately known as Randy. The family faced a major heartbreak when Joyce and Johnny’s infant son, John Boyd Salters, unexpectedly passed away. Despite the loss, they tried their best to live their lives to the fullest. Christy loved spending her time playing basketball and football with Johnny. She also said that he even encouraged her to dream big. However, Christy reflected that the dynamics of her relationship with her parents changed after they inadvertently learned that she was a lesbian. As per her statements, since they couldn’t accept her, she eventually moved out to attend college.
During that time, Christy began boxing, which led her to meet her coach, James V. Martin, AKA Jim. Although they got married in 1991, Christy claimed that the relationship wasn’t good because he was allegedly abusive towards her. Things took a dark turn on November 23, 2010, when he attacked her at their home in Florida and reportedly stabbed and shot her. A week later, Jim was found hiding at an abandoned house nearby. He was arrested on the spot and charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and attempted first-degree murder. After a jury trial, he was found guilty of aggravated assault and attempted second-degree murder (not premeditated) in April 2012. Jim was ultimately sentenced to 25 years in prison and later passed away in custody on November 26, 2024.
Joyce Salters Was a Woman of Faith and Devoted Her Life to Her Family
Joyce Faye Salters had always been a supportive parent for her children and tried to express her love for them in any way she could. However, long before her husband and kids entered her life, she had built a truly commendable path for herself. Joyce completed her initial education at Mullens High School in 1964. Following that, she stepped into her professional life as a Cashier at J&J Supermarket. Aside from that, Joyce was also a woman of faith, which led her to become a part of the Itmann United Methodist Church. At one point in her life, she finally met her soulmate, John, and was elated when they finally tied the knot at a beautiful venue. As her children began growing up, Joyce became quite involved with the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA).
Joyce’s loved ones always knew her as a mother who provided her children with immense support in their sports activities. According to Christy, although Joyce initially struggled to accept her daughter’s sexuality, she eventually embraced it with open arms. Following that, it helped forge a stronger bond between them. It became more evident when Joyce penned down an emotional message for Christy on Daughter’s Day, writing, “Happy Daughter’s Day to our very Special Daughter! Thank you for all you do for us! We are so proud of you for all of your accomplishments. You work so hard every day. You will always be our Beautiful Number 1 Baby Girl. We Love You, CHRISTY Renea SALTERS.”
Furthermore, Joyce often took pride in sharing Christy’s accomplishments. She was also very close to her son, Randall. Unfortunately, Randall suddenly passed away on November 28, 2020, leaving Joyce and his entire family completely grief-stricken. Joyce always carried the good memories of her son within her heart. In July 2021, she expressed her grief through a heartfelt birthday message that read: “Happy Birthday in heaven, Randy! Always our baby boy! We love and miss you!” However, she didn’t let the pain dictate her life and welcomed healing. She never missed an opportunity to showcase her love for her husband and make him feel special. Sadly, Joyce passed away on February 28, 2025, in Beckley, West Virginia.
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Johnny Salters Jr. Leans on Christy as He Navigates Life After the Loss of His Wife and Son
Johnny Salters Jr., also known as John, has always been a devoted cheerleader for his children. He also inspired them with his profession as a Coal Miner. Despite a hiccup for a few years when Christy felt he was unable to accept her true self, their relationship gradually improved over time. Family has always been the cornerstone of his life, and he often tries to make sure they know how much they mean to him. From the day of their marriage, John has been grateful for the presence of his wife, Joyce. From celebrating each other’s birthdays to enjoying the festive season side-by-side, they truly were a remarkable couple.
John and Joyce had celebrated their 61 years of togetherness in July 2024. However, her sudden demise left him with a gaping wound in his heart. Moreover, John still carries the grief of losing his son, Randall, to this day. Yet, amid all the turmoil, he always finds happiness and strength beside Christy. She is consistently excited to celebrate his birthday and even loves treating him to a meal from time to time. John’s bond with his daughter is further highlighted by the fact that when she was a boxer, she proudly called herself “The Coalminer’s Daughter.” As of writing, John prefers to stay away from the spotlight but never shies away from spending quality time with Christy.
