James Robert Martin, 52, left this world to join his Heavenly Father on January 29, 2023. James was born July 8, 1970 to his beloved mother, Bonnie Creech Martin. He lived most of his life in Columbia, SC but also spent time living in Nebraska and Colorado. Jay graduated from Irmo High school and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering at Southern Polytechnic State University. A man of many passions, he fully immersed himself in various ventures due to his entrepreneurial spirit. He was a student of computer programming, investing, crypto currency and health. He was the proud co-creator of Dreamy Laundry LLC, a master of the pool table, and lover of sports and fitness, to include basketball and tennis.

Above all, Jay's life was focused on service to the Lord and the needs of others. Jay lived in God's spirit daily, sharing his faith, testimony, and mirroring Christ by being of service to others. He gave freely to family, friends, neighbors and even strangers without asking anything in return. Jay was a devoted and loving son to his mother, Bonnie Martin Creech, who passed the year before.

Friends describe Jay as sensitive, caring, nonjudgmental, brilliant, studious, loving and loyal. He was a member of Toastmasters International and Bitcoin Night at the Peanut Man. Over the past year, Jay attended Riverland Hills Baptist Church where he made meaningful connections in adult Sunday school. He continued to give through volunteer opportunities at the Church where he did home repairs for those in need.

Surviving family members include his father Vern Martin, sister Rachael Jones and brothers Steve Martin, Ed Martin and Craig Martin. His surviving aunts include Margaret DuBard and Ruth Grieves. Surviving uncles include Mel Maurer, Bill DuBard, Dennis Martin and Lawrence Martin.

The funeral service for James will be held Sunday, February 19th at 1:00 pm at Greenhaven Preserve, 1701 Vanboklen Rd, Eastover, SC 29044. The family will receive friends following at Harbison Community Center at 106 Hillpine Rd, Columbia, SC 29212 from 3 to 5 p.m. (time may vary slightly depending on the completion of the funeral). Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.

Memorials may be made to the SAVE Foundation ( www.save.org ) in his honor. Flowers can be sent to Greenhaven.