### Biography of Joseph "Joe" Alfred Martin, Jr. Born on August 15, 1942, in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, Joseph "Joe" Alfred Martin, Jr. lived a life full of excitement, love, and an unyielding spirit of service. Joe was a man who cherished his family, delighted in simple joys, and found his greatest happiness in helping others. His journey through life was rich with colorful experiences, deep relationships, and a great sense of humor. Joe graduated from Miami Edison Jr. High School in 1960, and shortly thereafter, he took a bold step by joining the US Army. In 1964, he served his country as a field nurse, a role that paved the way for his two-decade-long career as a firefighter with Miami-Dade County Fire. Known for his uncanny ability to fix anything, Joe's resourcefulness was an asset both in his professional and personal life. On his days off, he owned and operated Martin's Aluminum and Martin's Roofing, establishing himself as a hardworking, dedicated individual who always kept his eyes on the next goal. After hanging up his firefighter's boots, Joe transitioned to the education sector, where he became a PE para at Country Oaks Elementary in LaBelle, Florida. His dedication to building maintenance later saw him assume the role of School Building Supervisor at Lehigh Elementary and Veterans Park Academy for the Arts. Emphasizing his commitment to service, Joe finally retired to focus on his most cherished role yet—a stay-at-home grandpa. Joe was witty and well-rounded, famously known among his grandkids and their friends for being the go-to guy for learning how to fix things or tackling new projects. His faith and reliability were his cornerstones, always available for anyone who needed help. A humble yet passionate leader, Joe demonstrated his love through acts of service, embodying his deep-rooted faith in Jesus. Life on Joe's farm was a mirror of his personality—kind, generous, and full of life. He loved riding his horses, lavishing his sheep and barn cats with attention, and especially adored his dogs. The outdoors was his sanctuary, where he delighted in every one of God's creations, from birds and butterflies to a beautifully tended garden. Indoors, Joe was known for his immaculate housekeeping, ever ready with a broom or mop. He loved reading on his Kindle, watching soccer or basketball, and playing cards. Yet, his happiest moments were always spent with his family and friends. His family included his beloved daughters  Cindy Lanier and her husband John, and Lisa Murphy and her husband Dan, and his treasured grandchildren Emily Murphy (and her fiancé Kyle), Evan Murphy, Addison Armour (and her husband Tyler), Grady Yelvington, and Grayson Yelvington. His lineage extended to his great-granddaughter Jane Armour. Joe also leaves behind his sister Faith Coulter (and her husband Tom), his niece Rachel, his nephew Joe, and his cousin Debbie Brooks. Joe was preceded in death by his loving wife Jane Martin, his parents Joe Martin, Sr., and Elinor Butler, and his brother Jimmy Martin. Always the generous soul, even in passing, Joe's family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Big Heart of Big Dogs at [www.bigheartsbigdogs.com/donate](www.bigheartsbigdogs.com/donate). Joe's life will be celebrated with a service at First Christian Church of Fort Myers, 2061 FL-867, Fort Myers, Florida at 3:00 PM. As we honor Joe's incredible story, we remember a man whose kindness, loyalty, and humor left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. Joe's legacy lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of being touched by his remarkable spirit.