Ronald "Ronnie" Gainesville - Martinez Eugene Martinez Ronald "Ronnie" Eugene Martinez, 63, of Gainesville, Georgia, passed away unexpectedly on October 15, 2025. Born April 26, 1962, Ronnie was born in Winter Haven, Florida, but shortly after, Key West, Florida became home and he proudly embraced his Conch heritage that stayed with him for life. He was proud to be a fighting Conch. Ronnie lived with a warmth and ease that reflected his island roots. He was a devoted husband, father, and Papa and found joy in life's simple blessings. His family was the heartbeat of his life. The love of his life, Carol, was his constant companion and anchor- the one he laughed with, leaned on, and cherished through every season. Together they built a home filled with faith, warmth and enduring love. His three sons, Robert, Shawn and Ronnie Lee, were his pride and joy. He led his family by example- through hard work, loyalty and humility- showing them what it meant to be a man of faith and integrity. His daughters-in-law, Amber, Megan and Taylor quickly became daughters of his heart, each loved deeply and fully. His five grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy and kept a twinkle in his eye. Papa was their biggest fan, gentle teacher and forever friend. You knew his love for them every time he mentioned their names by the smile on his face. Ronnie's life was marked by his faith, his generosity and his unwavering love for those around him. These qualities were evident to all who knew him, especially those he worked with in the marine business for the past 50 yrs. He always gave freely of his time, knowledge and expertise without hesitation to anyone in need and was always willing to go above and beyond to get the job done. Some of Ronnie's happiest days were spent outdoors with family and friends- early mornings in the woods, long afternoons on the water fishing, and nights gathered around a fire pit or grill, telling stories and sharing laughter. Those moments weren't about the hunt or the catch; they were about connection, time together, love shared, memories made. He loved the Lord deeply and his life was a clear reflection of that devotion- steady, humble and true. He will be remembered for his love, faith, and the countless lives he touched. His legacy will live on through his family he loved so fiercely and the example he left for all who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Carol, whom he adored. His three sons, Robert (Amber), Shawn (Megan) and Ronnie Lee (Taylor). His grandchildren, Ellie-Ana, Caroline, Myles, Millie and John Thomas. His mother, Irene Martinez. His father and step-mother, Mario and Vicky Martinez. His sister, Tina Barrios (Darcy), brothers David (Mory) and Gene Martinez. Sisters-in-law, Sue Barroso, Pam Reynolds (Frank), Robin Fender (Greg) and Rosemary Pumar (Bill) and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members. A celebration of Ronnie's life will be held Friday, October 24, 2025 at Memorial Park Funeral South Home, 4121 Falcon Parkway, Flowery Branch, Georgia 30542. Family visitation will be 1-2pm and the service will begin at 2pm. A reception will follow at The Venue at Friendship, 7340 Friendship Springs Blvd. A memorial service will be held in Key West, FL at a later date TBA.
Memorial Park South Funeral Home, 4121 Falcon Parkway, Flowery Branch, Georgia 30542 is in charge of arrangements. Send on-line condolences to
www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.
Published by Key West Citizen from Oct. 23 to Oct. 24, 2025.