SHELBY- Robert Anthony Martin, or as his CB radio comrades knew him, "Firestick" went on
his final ride down the heavenly highway on April 4, 2025, at the age of 65. Born on October
24, 1959, in Montgomery Co., Alabama, Tony made his mark in Cleveland Co., North Carolina,
where he captured hearts and occasionally the odd deer.
After more than 30 years of trucking, Tony hung up his hat with a well-worn seat and countless
stories about adventures on the road that could fill volumes (or at least a few CB radio
frequencies). When he wasn't behind the wheel, Tony could be found casting lines into the
Broad River, searching for the elusive perfect catch, or donning camouflage and heading into
the woods as an avid deer hunter.
Tony was many things--a passionate, caring, and loving father who adored his grandchildren,
RJ, Brantley, and Dakota. Whether it was sharing tall tales with them or teaching them the fine
art of angling, his love for them was as big as his heart. Tony also prized his time with his
beloved fur-daughter, Harley, who will undoubtedly miss their companionship.
He leaves behind a family who feels blessed by his spirited love and humor: his cherished
wife, Tammy Martin; his devoted mother, Jo Ann Bradley Martin; son Tony Martin Jr. and wife
Jessica; daughter Tiffaney Martin; sister Tammy Conley; brother Joseph Martin Jr.; along with
numerous nieces and nephews. Though his father, Joseph Aaron Martin Sr., and sister, Joan
Wallace, preceded him, they were never far from his thoughts.
Friends and family will gather to celebrate Tony's life and share a few more laughs at the
memorial service held at 11:00 am on Friday, March 11, 2025, at Clay-Barnette Funeral Home.
The family welcomes attendees to join an hour before to reminisce and exchange stories.
In memory of Tony, raise your fishing rods high, keep your CB radios tuned, and remember the
man who could reel you into a story just as easily as he could catch a fish. Here's to a life well
lived, a trail well blazed, and a Firestick now burning bright in the stars above.
Aquamation services are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center
www.claybarnette.com