William H. "Tony" Martin, 77, of Puckett, MS passed away on August 11, 2025.
Born on October 17, 1947 in Crestview, FL, he was the devoted husband to Judy Purvis Martin and a loving father to Nancy Martin, Kay Martin Elliott, and George Martin.

Dad was hard-working and dedicated. He spent his early years working as a railroad engineer for Illinois Central Gulf by night and farmer of soybeans by day. He was known for his ability to run down a moving train and jump on so it would not have to stop for engineer swaps.

Dad joined his brothers in business when they formed the National Pallet Co. in Puckett, MS and was there until retirement.

Despite his many responsibilities, he always made time for his family and passions. Dad loved to hunt but often said "A bad day fishing beats a good day doing much else." His love language was "acts of service." There is not one thing on the planet he could not fix, build, or create. He lived and died by these mottos: "Never pay a man for something you can do yourself" and "Never loan money with the expectation of return, the gift is in the giving."

Dad loved Western movies, a good steak, a cold beer, and most of all his dog Riley. Dad left us with many cherished memories and life lessons. The most cherished gifts that we will forever remember and long to hear are the nicknames he gave us: May Bell, Chump, Beetle, Bud (you know who you are).

He is survived by his wife Judy, his daughters, Nancy and Kay, his son George. His grandchildren Landen and Tucker (George), Will, Kaitlyn, and Ethan (Kay), his siblings Dan Martin, Woody Martin, Anna Charlton, Velma Cochrane, Corrine Kirkendall, as well as many friends who will miss him dearly.

We find comfort in knowing that Dad's legacy lives on through the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the Mississippi Animal Rescue at 5221 Greenway Dr. Jackson, MS 39204 – 601-969-1631 or to the Cure Alzheimer's Fund at curealz.org

To end this properly, we have to add the sentiment he spoke every night before he fell asleep: "Goodnight, cruel world."