Obituary for Melvin Dee Martin

Melvin Dee (Big Daddy) Martin went to his heavenly home on April 16, 2025, after complications from a car accident last fall. Melvin spent most of his work life as a dozer operator for West Land Clearing, and it was his wish to be buried in a favorite shirt from that company.

Melvin was a skilled mechanic, a car enthusiast, and a fan of blue grass gospel music. He loved to garden and became a good cook in his later years.

Melvin loved the Lord and his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years (Dorothy Martin of Laurens, SC); two brothers Enoch (Vonnie) Martin, Johnny (Kay) Martin; two sisters Emma Sue (Harry) Nix, Alma Picklesimer; three sons Ricky (Lisa) Martin of Greenwood, SC; Scott (Susan) Martin of Newberry, SC; and Kendall Martin of Columbia, SC. He was most affectionately known as “Papaw” to his grandchildren: Noah (Allie) Martin, Sloan Martin, Bennett Martin, Shelby Martin, Garrett Martin, and Sierra Martin. Harper Martin, due July 14, 2025, will be his first great grandchild.

He claimed the words of Psalm 23 and said with certainty, "I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

A funeral service will be held at 12pm on Monday, April 21, 2025 at Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel in Murphy.

The family will receive friends from 10am to 12pm on Monday, April 21, 2025 at Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel in Murphy prior to the funeral service.

A private family burial will be in Prospect Cemetery in Murphy.

Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.