Martin Douglas Cushman

Martin Cushman passed away peacefully on the morning of February 12th, in Mount Dora Florida. He was born in Owosso, MI in 1956 but grew up in Flint, MI, however after he graduated high school he moved to Central Florida where he spent the rest of his life. He was 69 upon his death.

Martin impacted so many people throughout his life - from the JC’s BBQ days, to the antique market, to his many beautiful pottery projects. He never met a stranger because he had an amazing way of turning a simple conversation into a lasting connection. Whether you knew him through business, art, or friendship, you knew his passion ran deep for everything he did.

Martin always wanted to be known for his art and he absolutely succeeded in that goal. His creativity, dedication, and tireless work ethic shaped not only the pieces he created, but the life he built. If you asked him what was the secret to his art he would simply say “draw everyday” and he did so. He drew on everything around him, napkins, junk mail, and his famous yellow legal pads. His inspiration came from stories, people, travels, and his home.

However, to his daughters, Lauren and Mandy - he was simply Dad. He was their steady place, the encourager, and the one who believed they could do anything they set their minds to. Some of their greatest lessons didn’t come from words, but in watching him create, rebuild, and never giving up.

A memorial will be held as an art exhibit “Martin Cushman, Florida Faience Pottery” at the Leesburg Arts Center from January 8th to March 6th 2027.

Martin is survived by his husband, Robert “Bob” Jones; his two daughters, Amanda “Mandy” Cushman; Lauren Cushman; and his three beautiful grandchildren Jackson (13), Landon (8), and Sophie (5). He is preceded in death by his father and mother; “JC” and Carol Cushman, and his brother Terry Cushman.

Martin loved using art to inspire kids and supported children’s art programs along with advising young artists, the family respectfully asks that in lieu of flowers and/or cards to please use the link below and donate to the Leesburg Arts Center’s Kids Art Program.

https://www.leesburgarts.com/give-1