In Loving Memory of
James "Jim" George Martin
Devoted Husband, Father, Brother, and Son
November 10, 1969 - May 16, 2025

James George Martin, born November 10, 1969, in Portsmouth, Virginia, passed away unexpectedly May 16, 2025, in Memphis, Tennessee, at the age of 55. His sudden death from a heart attack has left his family, friends, and colleagues devastated and in profound sorrow.

Jim grew up in Virginia Beach, Virginia, where he attended First Colonial High School, Class of 1987. He went on to earn a master's degree in Architecture from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in Savannah, Georgia, in 1993. After college graduation, he moved to the Metro Detroit area where he lived for 25 years. In 2018 Jim relocated to Bartlett, Tennessee to start a new life together with his best friend and soulmate, Laura.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Laura Ann Steward; his daughter, Lilian Rose Martin; and his stepchildren, Connor Nicholas and Alison Bridget Steward, who affectionately called him "Jim Dear." He is also survived by his parents: Dr. William Martin (wife Sharon) and Helen Vander Vennet (late husband Harry); his sisters, Janice "Jan" Whitlinger (husband John) and Carole Jones; his brother, William "Bill" Martin; and his half-brother, Robert Martin. Jim cherished his nephews, niece, and their young families, who were an important part of his life. Jim also leaves behind his mother-in-law, Susan Jones, and brother-in-law, Timothy Jones (wife Lynn).

Professionally, Jim was proud to work for Methodist LeBonheur HealthCare as a server engineer. He also volunteered his time and served as the Treasurer for the Delta Amateur Radio Club in Memphis, Tennessee, from 2021 until his untimely passing. His dedication to the club and its members was evident in the genuine care he showed to all. Jim had a unique ability to connect with people, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met with his charm, wit, and sense of humor. A private memorial service will be held in Virginia Beach, Virginia, in the near future.

Jim's unexpected passing has left a deep void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. His legacy of kindness, generosity, and compassion will continue to impact all who had the privilege of knowing him. His friends and family will remember him as a man of insatiable curiosity, great integrity, and passion for life.  We will endure a lifetime of missing you for the privilege of loving you.

Bartlett-Heritage Funeral Home & Cremation Center is honored to serve the family of James Martin; bartlettheritage.com; (901) 372-5555 .