Steven Dwayne Martin

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Steven Dwayne Martin, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. On July 8, 2025, Steve was enjoying a ride on his Harley alongside his eldest grandson, which was one of the things he enjoyed most when Steve was involved in a tragic motorcycle accident in Orange Park, Florida. Steve, unfortunately, succumbed to his injuries later that evening. He was 61 years old. Steven Dwayne Martin was born in Rapid City, South Dakota on May 2, 1964, to the late James Edward Martin and Jewell Dean Martin (Simpson). He was a proud graduate of Lowndes High School, Class of 82. In June of 1984, Steve joined the U.S. Navy as a Signalman. Steve’s military career was full of amazing accomplishments. He was a Tug Master; he was hand selected as Command Chief, assigned to NATO staff. He was a Craft Master, where he operated a $23 million dollar hovercraft for the U.S. Navy. During this time, he served in the Campaign Operation Enduring Iraqi Freedom. During his military journey he was stationed at Mayport, Jacksonville, Florida; Naval Air Station Key West, Key West, Florida; Little Creek Amphibious Base, Virginia Beach, Virginia; Naval Station Norfolk, Norfolk Virginia; then in July of 2004, he retired from the U.S. Navy as a Chief while he was stationed at ACU 4, Little Creek Amphibious Base, Virginia Beach, Virginia. Steve received many medals during his time in the service: Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medals (2), Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medals (4), Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation Navy “E” Ribbon, Good Conduct Medals (5), National Defense Service Medals (2), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Medal (5), Expert Pistol Medal, Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist. Steve had great love for his country. He was known for his unwavering support and unconditional love for his family. Steve took great pride and joy in his family. He was always offering words of wisdom, and was known as a hard ass and was never afraid to put a boot in your ass if you needed one. Steve had a passion for photography, fishing with his grandchildren, and riding his Harley. He enjoyed restoring his 62 Chevy Nova. Steve enjoyed spending time with the ones he loved. He will be remembered for his wisdom, strength, unwavering support, and profound impact that he made on those fortunate to have met him. There aren’t enough words to express how dearly he’ll be missed.

Steve leaves behind his devoted Wife, Nancy R. Martin (Hooker). He was the proud Father of two daughters: Brandy Turner (Martin) and Ashley Martin. He was a respected Father-in-Law of two Son-in-Laws: David E. Turner Jr., and Trevor J. Mays. Steve was a proud Papa to five grandchildren: Trinity Washburn (Turner), David Turner III, Taylor Turner, Olivia Mays, and James Mays; and Great Papa to Ellie-Mae and Nova-Belle. He is survived by three older brothers: James Michael Martin, Randall Lynn Martin, Phillip Lee Martin; and one younger sister, Teresa Louise Walker (Clancy). Steve was predeceased by his parents James Edward Martin and Jewell Dean Martin; his older brother (twin to Mike); nephew, Samuel Martin; great great niece, Blake-Everleigh, his sister-in-law, Debbie Martin, father-in-law, Bobby E. Hooker, mother-in-law, Loudelle Hooker, and stepbrother in-law, Greg Tucker.

A Memorial Service honoring his life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2025, in the Chapel of Hardage-Giddens Rivermead Funeral Home, 127 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, Florida, with a Celebration of Life reception to follow at the home of Steve and Nancy Martin. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the funeral home. Kind words and expressions of sympathy can be left for the family at www.hardage-giddensrivermead.com.