John Henry Martin III

John Henry Martin III was a devoted friend, father, and outdoorsman. John Henry Martin III passed away the morning of January 9, 2022, in Fairhope, Alabama.

John was born on July 20, 1951 to Ann Smith (Bedsole) and John Henry Martin II in Grove Hill, Alabama. Graduating high school from Georgia Military Academy (Woodward Academy), John attended the University of Georgia where he majored in Business and was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity. Following graduation, John returned home to Alabama to pursue a career in finance.

At Battles Wharf and Point Clear, he raised his children, enjoying summers on Mobile Bay, early morning jubilees, and time in his beloved Boston Whaler. He spent his later years in downtown Fairhope, one of his favorite places in the world. At the Bedsole family farm in Gosport, he thrived on hunting, fishing, exploring, as well as enjoying time with his friends and family.

John was loved by all and a stranger to few. With a vivacious personality, contagious smile, and incredible sense of humor, he touched the lives of many. He was an avid conservationist and philanthropist, always trying to leave the world a better place than he found it. He was passionate about helping others.

John was a son, brother, father and friend. A follower of Christ, he was rooted in faith. A  passionate Georgia Bulldogs fan, a lover of the woods, and world-class entertainer. John was the life of every party.

Most importantly, he had an eternally joyous spirit that will carry throughout his legacy.

John leaves behind a wealth of family and friends who will miss him dearly. He is survived by his mother, Ann Bedsole, sisters, Mary Riser and Raine Bedsole, and three children, White Martin, Isabelle Martin, and Julia Merhige.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, January 13th at 3:30 pm, at the home of a dear friend, followed by a burial service at Canton Bend Methodist Church, Camden, Alabama on Friday, January 14th at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s honor to the Fairhope Triangle Conservancy at 122 Fairhope Avenue, Suite 1, Fairhope, Alabama 36532.