James Irving Martin, 83, ended his day on August 20, 2025 by passing peacefully to join his wife Betty in a slow dance to "Theme From A Summer Place."

She was always patient to wait in the wings while he danced with anybody and everybody (and many of you reading this), but her wait is now over and the soundtrack is endless.

Jim lived a wonderful life and brought joy to so many who crossed his path. No matter who you were or how you knew him, he had a way of making people feel important. We all felt lucky to have a special connection with him - that shared joke, that deep thought, that joyous moment,
that nudge and wink, that FUN time.

Jim was always smiling. His accepting and generous spirit uplifted many. He loved to laugh, was full of mischief, and delightfully irreverent. He loved people in all walks of life, in any social setting, and especially blondes. His creativity and innovation permeated his life, from a Rube Goldberg machine he created as an alarm clock in his college dorm room to a successful architectural firm where he made a living doing what he loved to do.

James Irving Martin was born on August 14, 1942 and was raised in Concord, NC where he met his future wife, Betty Britt. He earned a degree in Architecture from Clemson University, and like many alums, his blood ran orange. He started his architectural career at JN Pease Associates
in Charlotte, NC, where he made some of the best friends of his life. The love of his life, Betty, finally agreed to marry him (on the third attempt!), and the couple moved to Shelby where Jim had the courage and tenacity to step out on his own and open his own firm--which became a legacy to his life's work.

Jim and Betty made a happy life in Shelby. They raised their children in the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer, where Jim participated in outreach ministry and leadership over the years, eventually having a hand in designing the new sanctuary built in 2001. They and their church friends shared baptisms, confirmations, weddings, and endless fun and fellowship as their families blossomed.

Jim was exceptionally committed to his career and providing for his family. His love for and pride in his children, Caswell Martin (Dan) and Britt Martin (Vina), was endless and unconditional. He was always ready to help with a science project, attend a soccer game or high school musical, and to allow space for their own development and personalities. He had a wonderful knack for listening to stories, celebrations, or trials and tribulations, usually over a delicious meal, where he never failed to pick up the check.

Jim loved dinners with friends, beach vacations with his grandchildren Turner White and Lila Allen, and dancing with Betty. He was always ready for a good costume party, or game night, or general shenanigans of any and all kinds. He performed the most incredible card tricks, built amazing block and lego structures, and created elaborate sand castles and sculptures. He was the king of making funny faces and various other antics. In retirement, he loved travelling the world with dear friends, taking art classes, and eating strawberry ice cream.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Ellis James Martin and Eleanor Caswell Irish. He is survived by his children and grandchildren, brother Alan Martin (Kathy), and sister Carol Miller.

To many of us, Jim seemed like a wildly successful, larger-than-life, jovial magician. However, Jim always maintained that he was just a lucky guy. May we all enjoy the contentment that comes from living life fully in the moment, with joy and love.

A celebration of life will be held in the sanctuary of the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Shelby on Saturday, October 4 at 3:00 pm, with reception to follow.

Memorials may be directed to the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Shelby (504 W. Sumter Street, Shelby, NC 28150) or to Hospice of Cleveland County (VIA Health Partners, 951 Wendover Heights Dr, Shelby, NC 28150).

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family.