Kenneth Leander Martin, 76, died October 8, 2026. Born October 2, 1950, in Rockingham County, North Carolina, Kenneth lived most of his life in Winston Salem before spending approximately the last 15 years in Oak Island, North Carolina.
From early on, Kenneth put his shoulders into whatever he chose to do—steady, determined, and never afraid of the long hours it takes to do something well. He attended Culinary School and went on to become a Master Chef, a title that suited him not just for the skill behind it, but for the work ethic that made it possible.
Kenneth’s career was marked by the kind of hands-on dedication that doesn’t clock out. He was part owner of Zeverly House and the owner of Bistro 900 and Bistro 420—places shaped by the daily effort, persistence, and pride of someone who believed good food (and a job done right) were always worth the extra time. And while kitchens can be intense, Kenneth had a way of keeping things a little lighter—because even when the heat is on, it helps to have someone nearby who can serve excellence with a side of good humor.
Kenneth is survived by his son, Taylor Martin; his brother, Bill Martin; and his sister, Kateria Freeland. He was preceded in death by his father, Olin William Martin, Sr, and his mother, Nina Mae Taylor Martin.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation (www.kidney.org).
