Tony Martin

Tony Duane Martin was born on November 22, 1960 to Jack Ray and Rita Marie (Mayer) Martin. He graduated from South Houston High School in 1979, raised two children, Susan and Andrew, and spent many years as a delivery driver for Dr Pepper Snapple Co., among other jobs. He left this world on May 22, 2019 at the age of 58. He was undoubtedly welcomed to Heaven by his parents and big brothers, John and Donald.

Tony was known as Daddy, Papaw, Bubba and Big Tony. He managed to leave a legacy as big as himself in the hearts of his family and friends, specifically his daughter Susan Martin (Wendy Montgomery), son Andrew Martin (Daniela Martin), grandchildren Raegan and Emery Martin Montgomery and Sophia Martin, his devoted younger sister Karen Ann Martin, eldest sister Linda Rae Browne (Tom Browne) along with nieces and nephews, Michelle Browne, Keith Browne, Mark Browne (Christy), and Leontine Gooley (Ken).

Tony loved to cook, throw a good party, ride his motorcycle, and share laughs with his many friends. He often found peace on his bike, whether that meant a long ride on his own, joining a benefit ride, or just small rides around town with friends. Though his genes gifted him a large stature that could intimidate, his soft and caring nature made him no more than a big teddy-bear. Tony was well-known for being the one who would drop anything to help a friend or family member. Many know the phrase “he’d give the shirt off his back”, and this was true of Tony. His presence would bring cheer to a room, and he loved toasting the good times with a glass of Jack. Tony was also known to be a stubborn and private man, never wanting to burden anyone else with his worries or ailments, he put everyone else in his life first. In his final moments, realizing he had to set aside his pride, he was kind, humble, and especially appreciative of his sister Karen’s care.

Tony took the most pride in his children, Susan and Andrew. He always said, if he did one thing right in his life, it was his kids. As Susan and Andrew grew, Tony embraced every whim they had, and fiercely stood-up for them and encouraged their passions. At times, this meant hours upon hours hand-painting The Little Mermaid on Susan’s bedroom wall (and repainting Flounder when it turned out the wrong color!) or enduring pre-teen humor as he coached young boys in confirmation classes and cub scouts with Andrew. He endured math books being thrown across the kitchen table, and didn’t mind the mess when it meant his kids were learning or enjoying life. Tony also cared for and attempted to keep the neighborhood kids in-line by always having the door to his home, and pantry, open. His well-known Dad-whistle could be heard, and understood, from blocks away.

In his last four years, Tony’s entire world lit up as he spent days babysitting his granddaughter, Raegan. Many days involving princess dress-up and tea parties (with cookies, much to moms chagrin- so many cookies)! He melted with every smile and laugh from his granddaughter, Sophia (8 months), and beamed with pride in the few short moments he was able to spend with his grandson, Emery (3 weeks) - even promising him cookies from Papaw when his Moms say “No”.

Tony lived, and he believed in the goodness of others. His legacy will be celebrated through the spirit and character he ingrained in his children and grandchildren.