George Anthony "Tony" Martin's Obituary
We are deeply saddened as we mourn the loss of George Anthony (Tony a.k.a. Colie) Martin, who went peacefully on his journey after a recent struggle with stomach cancer.
Tony is survived by the devoted love of his life, Leila; his maternal aunt Doris Whitt White; his siblings: Marlene (Dean Wheeler), Randy (Terri Wright Spinks), Kathy Pollard, and Jimmy (Kim); as well as his much-loved nephews and nieces who call him Cokie: Travis Wheeler (Minde), Caroline & Mackenzie Wheeler; Alecia Wheeler (Luke Clamp), Ian & Alex Clamp; Chad Martin (Loren), Devin Martin; Amanda Martin; Jeremy Spinks (Jamie), Joshua & Jaycelyn Spinks; Tassy Pollard (Ralph Mannis), Nina & Logan Mannis; Lee Pollard III (Lauren), Abigail & Alexis Pollard; Eric Pollard (Lauren), Austin & Everett Pollard; Sara Pollard (Elijah Hayes), Cooper & Connor Hayes; Will Martin (Sarah), Azalee Martin; Andrew Martin (Emma), James Martin; Michael Martin (Stacy), Marlee & Sunny Martin; his McMillan brothers, sisters, nephews and nieces by marriage: Jack Olin, Matt, Sammy (Kate); Vic (Melissa), Victor (Stewart), Henry, Jack, Grace, Thomas (Jaclyn); Sam, Nan (Ben Edwards); Teresa & Maria(h); along with a multitude of Martin and Whitt cousins.
He is preceded in death by his parents, William Alvin (Bill) and Juanita Whitt Martin, and his sister, Joyce Ann Martin.
Tony will live in our hearts forever, spreading humor, joy, laughter and smiles through the endless retelling of unforgettable stories highlighting his unique spirit and special knack for funny shenanigans and creative antics. He was truly a character whose vivid imagination captured made-up words & verbs that left no questions of their meanings and became vocabulary often used by those who knew him. In addition, he is credited with giving fitting nicknames to many who crossed his path.
As a favorite uncle to countless young people, whether by blood, marriage, or choice and purpose, he will be greatly missed by friends and loved ones near and far, especially Leila’s extended McMillan and Murphy families who fully embraced him. He always had a heightened sense of when and how to provide others with uplifting understanding. This natural attribute contributed to his value as a Big Brother volunteer during the years when a single mom and her son needed mentoring support. He was also a reassuring show of muscle to kids who might have otherwise bullied.
Known in business as George, he trained and worked as an HVAC engineer with building management companies in Atlanta which included White & Associates, Technology Park, and Holder Properties. He was a member of Christ Church Episcopal in Norcross, GA, and he participated in building Habitat for Humanity homes for a co-worker and others.
Graveside services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, May 23rd at Memory Gardens, 586 Issaqueena Trail, Central, SC 29630, phone 864-654-3236.
A native of Clemson, Tony the Tiger wore orange daily and rarely missed opportunities to see university athletic events. So, please come to the cemetery attired for the hometown Clemson tailgate celebration that will follow the service at Clemson University Outdoor Lab, 415 Charlie White Trail, Pendleton, SC 29670, to rejoice in the wonderful, colorful life he shared with us.
Lifesong Funerals & Cremations, Quincy, FL, is assisting the family with arrangements (850-627-1111).
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory will be sincerely appreciated: Kanuga (a non-profit Episcopal camp and retreat), 130 Kanuga Chapel Drive, Hendersonville, NC 28739; Big Bend Hospice Foundation, 1723 Mahan Center Blvd, Tallahassee, FL 32308; or to a charity of your choice.
What’s your fondest memory of George?
What’s a lesson you learned from George?
Share a story where George's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with George you’ll never forget.
How did George make you smile?