Mr. Robert Ira Martin Jr.

Mr. Robert Ira Martin Jr., 84, passed away on July 6, 2026. Born March 1, 1942, in Charleston, South Carolina, to Robert Ira Martin, Sr. and Frances Ferrell Stovall McCarter. He was a resident of Memphis, Tennessee.

Mr. Martin graduated from high school in 1960 in Nacogdoches, Texas, beginning a life marked by steady purpose and a work ethic that never sought attention, only results.

He served in the U.S. Army Texas National Guard from 1963 to 1969 and was honorably discharged, a reflection of the loyalty and dependability that shaped his life. Early in his career, he worked for the Varsity Shop in Dallas, Texas. He worked for Century Papers in Houston, Texas, and later in Memphis, Tennessee, before continuing his work with Magnolia Papers—years defined by consistency, responsibility, and pride in doing things the right way.

Those who knew Mr. Martin will remember not only his sound judgment and practical wisdom, but also the quiet humor that could lighten a moment and bring people together. His interests reflected both curiosity and devotion: he enjoyed boating and sailing, and he took particular pleasure in foreign cars—especially British makes such as Morgans and Bentleys. He was a member of the Memphis British Car Club and an early NASCAR fan. He also enjoyed cooking .

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Mary Thomas Martin and his children, Kevin Martin (Kris) and Sarah Martin. He is also survived by his three grandchildren, Kennedy Perry (Brett), Zoe Smith, and Kyle Martin, who knew him as Papaw and Deda. He was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter, Ashley Martin Smith.

Visitation will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 8151 Chimneyrock Blvd., Memphis, TN 38016, on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 2:00 PM until the Memorial Mass at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.