Roll Call Tribute

Jeffrey Lynn Martin 

July 31, 1953 - February 7, 2025 

Jeffrey Lynn Martin passed away peacefully on February 7, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter. Born on July 31, 1953, in Grand Island, Nebraska, to Twila K. and Jerome Kenneth Martin, Jeff began his journey on his grandparents' farm in Chapman, Nebraska while his father was stationed overseas in the army. Throughout his life, he fondly recalled summers spent visiting the farm, where he learned from his grandfather how to drive a tractor and help with irrigation—experiences that left a lasting impression and brought him great joy.

His early years were spent in Denver, Colorado, before the family moved to Pennsylvania for a brief time, ultimately settling in Houston, Texas. Jeff graduated from Westchester High School in 1971 and pursued his passion for baseball at Texas A&M University College Station. After returning to Houston, he co-founded a woodworking business with his brother, Greg, specializing in finish carpentry for custom home building. His craftsmanship and attention to detail were highly regarded in the industry.

In 2006, he began a successful career as a REALTOR, where he was highly respected. He served as Manager of the HUD Foreclosure Division, overseeing contract compliance, and mentoring new agents at RE/MAX Professional Group. When the brokerage transitioned to RE/MAX Universal in 2019, he continued as a Team Leader, Advisor, and active participant in agent training. His impact on the REALTOR community was significant, earning him widespread admiration.

On June 27, 1981, Jeff married the love of his life, Elizabeth Ann Essig, at La Hacienda de las Morales in Houston. Beginning in Houston and finally settling in Katy, Texas, they built a beautiful family, welcoming their son, Jeremy Essig Martin, and daughter, Lilith Evans Martin. Jeff's family was his pride and joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

Jeff was known for his incredibly quick wit, his upbeat attitude, and his never-ending smile, always brightening the day of those around him. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, consistently offering a helping hand to anyone in need. His kindness and generosity were felt by all who knew him. Jeff was a dedicated volunteer, giving his time to his church, local schools, and Christus St. Catherine Hospital in Katy, where he served as President of the volunteer board. He also contributed over a decade to the Westchester Alumni Association, serving on the board as the Event Coordinator, helping bring the spirit of his high school classmates together at many events around Houston.

A true sports enthusiast, athletics shaped much of his life and who he was. He valued the fundamentals in both sports and life, believing that a strong foundation was the key to success. From playing quarterback at age six to competing on a city league baseball team as an adult, he played competitive sports for over 40 years. He excelled in three sports in high school—football, basketball, and his most beloved, baseball—where he was a standout third baseman. In high school, he set records and earned the nickname "Hands" for his excellent hand-eye coordination. His passion for health and fitness was evident most recently in his dedication as a fitness trainer at Memorial Athletic Club, where he inspired many.

Jeff was a man of many passions, finding joy in slot car track racing, following the IMSA racing circuit, enjoying craft BBQ, rock and roll music, and various crafts, particularly woodworking. He loved to travel, especially to the beaches of Puerto Vallarta, creating cherished memories—first with his wife on their honeymoon, later with their children. He loved welcoming friends and family into his home, where good food and great company were always at the heart of every gathering.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; son Jeremy and wife Brandi; daughter Lilith; brother Gregory Scott Martin; sister Lisa Martin Brooks; along with a large, loving, extended family who will deeply miss his presence. Jeff was preceded in death by his parents.

Jeff will be remembered as an amazing man, a true gentleman, and a beacon of happiness in the lives of those he touched. His legacy of love, laughter, and generosity will live on in the hearts of many.