Stella Faye McKay Martinson

Loved by so many, Stella Faye McKay Martinson, 77, passed peacefully on March 11th, 2023. She was born to C.T. McKay and Stella Belle Faulkner McKay on July 6th, 1945, in Birmingham, Alabama. Stella graduated from Choctawhatchee Sr. High School in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida in 1963.

Stella was married to Alfred R. Martinson (Fred) for 57 years and their family home, the “Funny Farm”, was known for southern hospitality, family, love, and laughter. Fred and Stella ran a successful business together in Plant City, Florida where they raised their children. Stella is survived by her husband, son Marty (Carol), daughters, Windy and Kristen, and close family friend, Michelle (John), who became another daughter. She is also survived by her grandchildren and first great-grandchild.

Stella never met a stranger and to know her was to love her. Anyone who visited the Funny Farm was sure to be met with great food, a warm hug, and a “cottontail” (cocktail) on the pool deck. Her family was blessed to learn many valuable lessons from Stella in her 77 years, among them: never call anyone during an Alabama Football game, every recipe needs just a little more butter, and don’t let a writing spider see your teeth. Her list of “Stella-isms” will live long in her family’s hearts and memories. She was the kind of person who was the first to lend a hand and who’s loving nature made all those who knew her feel at home. She will be deeply and forever missed.

To say she was a warrior is an understatement. She fought her 12 year battle with lung and breast cancer with courage, grace, humor, and faith. Memorial donations, in lieu of flowers, may be made in support of the Stella McKay Martinson Research Advocacy Program at ICAN, International Cancer Advocacy Network: https://askican.org/donate.html

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.StowersFH.com for the Martinson family.