William "Billy" Martin

On Monday, June 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of those who cherished him, William ‘Billy’ Martin peacefully completed his courageous battle with cancer. A kind, humble soul with a heart that never stopped giving, he lived his life in service to others - not out of obligation, but out of genuine compassion. He asked for little, needed even less, and gave more than most people ever realized.

He was a small town boy at heart, shaped by the simple beauty of his family’s homestead in Lumberton, Mississippi. His little place by the pond was his refuge - a space where he could build, tinker, and create with the resourcefulness that defined him. If something needed fixing, he fixed it. If someone needed help, he showed up before they could ask. Keeping busy wasn’t a habit for him; it was an expression of love.

Family was the center of his world. He adored his parents, whose memory guided him throughout his life. He treasured his siblings deeply, and the bond they shared was one of unwavering loyalty and affection. He was a devoted father to his two daughters, always proud of the women they became. His four grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy, each one holding a special place in his heart.

He was a man who measured wealth not in possessions, but in kindness. A man who built what he needed with his own hands. A man who gave quietly, generously, and without hesitation. A man who loved deeply and lived simply. His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but his legacy of service, humility, and steadfast love will continue to shape the lives of all who knew him.

May his memory be a blessing, and may the gentle goodness he carried through this world live on in each of us.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Devon and Burma Martin of Lumberton, MS; his former spouse and mother of his children, Nina Sones of Purvis, MS; and his granddaughter, Miranda Colby of Rowlett, TX.

He is survived by a close knit circle of siblings and their spouses - each one not just family by relation or marriage, but true companions of his heart: Brenda & Eddie Carr of Lucedale, MS; Bruce & Sandra Martin of Poplarville, MS; Greg & Sandra Pearl Martin of Lumberton, MS. Their connection was deep, genuine, and lifelong. He is also survived by his two daughters and their spouses, whom he held in deep affection and was profoundly proud of: Trudy & Mike Strange of Rowlett, TX; Amy & Jeramy Tuggle of Rockwall, TX. His grandchildren - Tyler Rockmore & wife Jessica of Waldo, AR; Zaughn Tuggle and Brennan Rizzo, both of Rockwall, TX. They will forever carry his gentle spirit forward.

He is survived as well by the love of his life, Laura Hoyt of Hattiesburg, MS. Their bond was one of deep affection and mutual care, a blessing to them both.

He leaves behind many nieces and nephews who each held a special place in his heart: Ricky Carr, Brian Carr, Christopher Martin, Breann Turner, Heath Martin, Amber Martin, Karen Henry, and Danny Ladner, all of Mississippi; Phillip Moore, Christie Langley, Kelly Hottinger, Terri Hernandez, and Tonya Pauley, all of Texas.