A Life Story
Rubert “Buddy” Clary Martin, Jr., 83, died on August 26, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, just weeks after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Born in Savannah, Georgia, on June 2, 1943, to Sarah Alice “Virginia” Dorsey Martin and Rubert “Clary” Martin, Sr., Buddy graduated from Jenkins High School in 1961 and attended Armstrong State College, where he met the love of his life, Beverly “Becky” Kaye Vernon Martin. They were married for 55 years and raised their three daughters in Savannah. They later made their home in Charleston, South Carolina, sharing memorable times there with their four grandchildren before eventually returning home to Savannah. Buddy enjoyed a long and successful career in real estate as a developer, Realtor, and builder. He was involved in commercial and residential real estate development in Savannah, the greater Charleston, South Carolina, area, and North Carolina, with much of his later work focused on residential development on Johns Island, South Carolina. Buddy served on the Church Council at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and was a charter member of Messiah Lutheran Church on Skidaway Island, where he also served on the building committee. Most recently, he was a member of Christ Church Anglican. Above all, Buddy was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose family always came first. Becky was his wife, his best friend, and the center of his life. He took tremendous pride in being the father of three daughters and gave them a lifetime of generosity, unwavering devotion, and unconditional love. He later delighted in being “B-Dad” to two granddaughters and two grandsons. Buddy had a great smile, great style, and a wonderful sense of fun. He loved cars and beautiful homes and was always ready for a turn on the dance floor. He formed close and lasting friendships throughout his life and was deeply loyal to those he cared about. Those who knew Buddy knew they could always count on him. Buddy was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Becky; his parents, Virginia and Clary; and his sister, Virginia Dare Martin Henderson (Gene). He is survived by his cherished daughters, Amy Martin Pinckney (Ashley), Melody Martin Norwood, and Sally Anne Martin Giles (Joe); his beloved grandchildren, Grace Archer Pinckney (fiancé, Tyler Andresen), Ashley “Ash” Pinckney, Jr. (Lani), Madeline Kathleen Ryan, and Hayes Gibson Norwood; his sister, Mary Jane Martin Shuman (Leiston); his godsons, Jim Marshall and Les Shuman; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Details regarding a celebration of Buddy’s life will be shared at a later date. The family is deeply grateful to Hospice Savannah for the exceptional kindness, care, and support they provided to Buddy and his family during his final days. Those wishing to honor Buddy’s memory may consider a gift to Hospice Savannah in gratitude for the compassionate care they provide to families throughout our community.