William "Billy" "Billy" Martin Jr. Jr.

William "Billy" Joseph Martin Jr. was wrapped in love as he entered heaven on July 25, 2025, surrounded by the hearts that knew and loved him best. The air was filled with a love so deep and steady, it spoke of a life lived fully and beautifully. Though our hearts ache, we celebrate a life that overflowed with devotion, humor, strength, and a steady, kind and generous love, it became the very foundation his family stands on.

Billy's presence brought light to any room. His humor was effortless and true. His laugh was the kind that filled a space, wrapping around you until you couldn't help but join in, he drew people close and made them feel at home.

Billy was the kind of man you wanted in your corner. He showed up, again and again. Every scraped knee patched, every light bulb fixed, every game attended, every hard day made easier. He loved like it was his life's mission, and it was.

He was the rock of his family. Billy and his wife, Tammy Martin, shared a love that began when they were 14 years old. Together, they built a life filled with laughter and strength, raising three daughters in a home overflowing with warmth and memories. Since 1991, their house in Lapeer, Michigan, became a living scrapbook of their journey, a place where comfort lived in every room, laughter and noise echoed through the halls, and grandchildren brought the joy that completed their story.

To his daughters, Tabitha (Nicholas) Garon, Tarrah Martin, and Trisha Martin, Billy was everything. He was their protector, teacher, and greatest cheerleader. He was the voice of reason in chaos, the quiet comfort in heartache, and the first one they turned to. His love for them was fierce, constant, and unconditional, and they loved him with every part of who they are. And to Billy, Nicholas wasn't just a son-in-law, he was a son deeply loved and respected.

His grandchildren - Brody, Johnny, Kelsey, Briggs, Beckett, Tessa, Tinlee, and Teddi were the true treasures of his life. He cherished them, he showed up for them in all the ways that matter most. He taught them not with lectures, but with love. He was patient, steady, and full of joy when he was with them. His love shaped them and his legacy will live on in them.

Billy was the cherished son of Cathleen Martin, and the beloved brother of Paul (Terri) Martin, Christopher (Linda) Martin, Matthew Martin, and Samantha (Brian) Sikorski, and many nieces and nephews. He was the son whose loyalty never wavered, the brother who always had your back, and the uncle whose stories never got old. Billy is also survived by his dear friends, which stood as a reminder of the rare, lifelong friendships he nurtured with quiet loyalty and genuine care.

He was preceded in death by his father, Billy Joe Martin, who surely welcomed him home with pride.

Professionally, Billy retired in 2007 from Shane Steel Processing, where he was known as a skilled setup and repair man with unmatched work ethic and quiet determination. Beyond the shop floor, he proudly served for many years as the Union President, negotiating countless contracts on behalf of his coworkers. He stood up for what was right with strength, always putting the needs of others first. His hands were calloused, but his heart was soft.

He found joy in the simple things: watching a game, fishing in the afternoon, sitting at a bonfire, or cracking a joke just to hear you laugh. He believed in family, in showing up, in love without conditions. He gave his whole heart to the people he loved.

Billy graduated from Carl Brablec High School in Roseville, Michigan, in 1982, where he was an incredible student-athlete. He was strong, fast, and competitive. He always valued what sports could teach: discipline, resilience, teamwork, and heart. His spirit will live on in every game played, every jersey worn, and every kid who finds confidence on the field or court, just like he did.

To honor Billy's lifelong love of sports and his belief in what they can do for kids, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to one of the following youth sports organizations that his grandchildren belong to: Imlay City Youth Football (Venmo @Icyfl-Spartans), or North Branch Colts Baseball 12u (Venmo @Josh-Klauka).

A celebration of Billy's life will be held on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Lynch and Sons Funeral Home, 542 Liberty Park, Lapeer, MI 48446. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, with the service beginning at 4:00 PM. In honor of Billy's vibrant spirit and lifelong love of sports, guests are invited to wear orange, his favorite color, or their favorite sports jersey. Following the service, Billy will return home to be with his girls, exactly where he belongs.