LaVonne "Shorty" Martin

LaVonne "Shorty" Martin passed away peacefully on November 5, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born in Bell Center, Wisconsin, to Clarence and Myrtle (Brockway) Martin, LaVonne graduated from Muscoda High School in 1956 before proudly joining the United States Air Force. While stationed in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, he met the love of his life, Rhoda Abrams. The two were married and shared 52 wonderful years together, raising three sons and building a life full of love, laughter, and adventure.
Throughout his 20-year Air Force career, LaVonne served with pride and dedication, retiring as a Technical Sergeant in 1976. He continued his service to the military community as a civilian employee with AAFES before retiring for what he jokingly called "the second time."
After settling in Myrtle Beach, LaVonne and Rhoda spent their later years surrounded by family, cherishing every moment with their grandchildren. Known for his humor, hard work, and endless kindness, LaVonne touched the lives of everyone who knew him.
LaVonne is survived by his three sons, Dale (Theresa) Martin of Myrtle Beach, David (Denise) Martin of Walterboro, and Donald Martin of Myrtle Beach; his sister Donna Roh of Richland Center, WI; his brothers Edward Martin of Beloit, WI, and Wayne (Mary Ann) Martin of Madison, WI; ten grandchildren; and twenty-two great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rhoda; his parents; his sisters, Emogene Johnson and Virginia Bollinger; and his brothers, Carroll, Keith, Roger, Gale, and Donald Martin.
Funeral service will be 2:00 PM, Sunday, November 9, 2025 at Goldfinch Funeral Home, Beach Chapel with burial to follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in Conway with full military honors. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
LaVonne's kindness, generosity, and love for his family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. His laughter filled every room, and his endless jokes brought smiles to all who were lucky enough to know him.