Joseph Martin Carstarphen IV

Joseph Martin Carstarphen IV

July 13, 2025

Phoenix, Arizona - Joseph Martin Carstarphen IV, beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and uncle passed away peacefully at the Sherman Hospice House in Phoenix, Arizona on July 13, 2025, at the age of 69.

Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, Martin was raised in the close-knit town of McAdenville. From an early age, he distinguished himself as an outstanding swimmer, competing at an elevated level throughout the Southeast. He graduated from Gaston Day School and went on to attend Wofford College.

Martin began his professional journey in the family business, Pharr Yarns, where he worked in several of the company's manufacturing facilities before relocating to New York City to join the company's sales office. With a keen sense of vision and creativity, Martin later founded his own apparel brand, producing luxury sportswear made from 100% Sea Island cotton.

With his love of McAdenville, later in his career, Martin returned to Pharr, working within the real estate side of the company and remained there until his retirement in 2018. Retirement brought new inspiration - he and his beloved wife and soulmate, Jennifer, moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico, where they found deep joy in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Southwest. It became a place of peace and renewal for him.

Martin was known for his adventurous spirit, curiosity, and passion for discovering new things. Whether through travel, design, or conversation, he brought energy and imagination to everything he touched, believing strongly in his mantra "Be Here Now". He was a loving father to his children, Alexandra, Isabel, and Jack. And he was so happy to have a new role as a grandfather to Charlotte.

He was preceded in death by his father, J.M. Carstarphen III. Martin is survived by his devoted wife, Jennifer Justice (JJ), daughter; Alexandra Morton (Tyler) and granddaughter, Charlotte Morton ; daughter, Isabel Carstarphen; son, Jack Justice; his loving mother Catherine Ann Carstarphen; sister, Catherine Carstarphen; brother, Bill Carstarphen (Carol); niece, Catherine Rongo (Steve); 3 nephews, William Carstarphen (Brittany), Ben Carstarphen (Audrey), and John Carstarphen. And great nieces and nephews James, Jackson, Ophelia, and Joseph.

A memorial service will be held later.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sherman Home Hospice of the Valley 5801 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, Arizona, in gratitude for their compassionate care.