Thomas James Martin

Tom was born in Peoria, Illinois, on April 11, 1940, to Harold P. and Henrietta Martin. After graduating from Clearwater High School, he joined the Coast Guard and later worked in the family machine shop before building a long career in the appliance repair industry. He began by working for a local appliance business and eventually built his own appliance repair company, which he and his wife Joy ran together. After many successful years in appliance repair, he returned to the family machine shop, bringing his skills and work ethic full circle.

Tom’s faith was a central part of his life. A devoted member of his church, he served as a deacon, offering guidance, compassion, and support to others. He approached his service with humility and a genuine desire to help, and his church family remained an important source of strength and community throughout his life.

Outside of work, Tom found great joy in woodworking. He loved creating beautiful handcrafted pieces—plates, bowls, goblets, and pens—and he shared them generously with family and friends. Over the years, he created hundreds of items, including a special set of pens sent to an Army unit in Afghanistan. Family and friends will also remember him for his kindness, humor, strength, and mischievous smile.

In his later years, Tom faced the challenges of Alzheimer’s with remarkable courage, humor and quiet resilience. Surrounded by the love and support of his family, he met each day with strength, and his gentle spirit remained evident to all who cared for him.

Tom is survived by his wife, Joy Martin; his daughter, Cheryl (Don) Fesh; his son, Paul (Liza) Martin; and his granddaughters, Lindsey Martin and Gabrielle (Kyle) Brown. Tom and Joy would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in March, a testament to their lifelong devotion to one another. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold P. and Henrietta Martin; his brother, Lt. Col. Douglas S. Martin; and his son, T.J. Martin.

A memorial service will be held on February 21, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at North Dunedin Baptist Church to honor both Tom and his son, T.J. Martin. All who knew Tom are welcome to attend and celebrate a life well lived. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org).

Tom’s presence will be deeply missed, and his love, kindness, strength, and memory will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew him.