Martin Thomas Burley, a man whose heart was always turned toward others, passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, surrounded by the love he had given so freely throughout his life. He went to his desired place to live with Jesus, his Lord & Savior. From the very beginning, he lived with a rare and genuine spirit, one that lifted people up, made strangers feel like old friends and left no one untouched by his warmth.

He never met a stranger. Whether he was sharing a story, striking up a conversation, or offering help without being asked. He had a gift for making people feel seen and valued. Talking to him was effortless. He always had something to say, and more importantly, he always had time to listen.

There was always a song in his heart, and often on his lips. He could turn an ordinary moment into one worth remembering with just a few notes. His presence made rooms brighter, burdens lighter, and days better.

A man of top-notch work ethic, he believed in doing things the right way, the honest way, and giving every task the best he had. He showed up for his job, for his friends, and especially for his family. His family were his greatest pride and his deepest joy.

He put others above himself until he very moment he died, living each day with humility, kindness, and a generosity that seemed endless. His life was an example of what it means to love fiercely, laugh often, and give without hesitation.

He leaves behind a legacy built not on material things, but on the people he touched, the lives he brightened, and the love he poured into the world. He will be remembered with gratitude, with admiration, and with hearts forever changed by having known him.

Martin Burley passed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, devotion, and cherished memories. Martin was born on November 23, 1944, in Zaleski, Ohio. He graduated from Zaleski High School in 1963. Martin worked for Brooks Shoe Co. as a foreman for 50 years, retired, and worked another 4 years at the Rocky Distribution Center. He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Cindy, who was his steadfast partner through life’s journey.

Martin’s family was his greatest joy. He is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Missy (Chris) Holley and Teresa (Jim) Runyon of Nelsonville, as well as Ryan (Jessica) Hall, who was like a son to him & Janetta Denney, who was like a daughter to him. His grandchildren brought him endless pride: Elizabeth (Ben) Carpenter of Morgantown, Kayla (Nick) Leppert of Athens, Joshua (Chelsea) Holley of Nelsonville, Nick (Sami) Runyon of Roanoke, Sarah Holley of New Albany, and Adam Runyon of Dublin. His great-grandchildren- Maxx, Cole, Owen, Christopher (affectionately called “Ramcat” by Grandpa), James, Lucas, and Ollie – were the light of his later years.

Martin also treasured his “Ashland Angels,” Brenda and Brittany, and held dear his special friends, Dan Carson, Larry Harkless, and Larry Reznick.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Verna Burley; his beloved brother, Gary; an infant sister; father-in-law, Robert Nice; and his special brothers-in-law, Steve and Randy Nice.

Martin’s life was defined by his deep love for family, his friendships, and his unwavering kindness. His memory will live on in the hearts of all that knew him.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at the Warren-Brown Funeral Home of Nelsonville, Ohio with pastor Randy Hall. Burial will follow at Zaleski Cemetery in Zaleski, Ohio.  

Calling hours will be held from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM on Monday December 1, 2025, and from 10-11 AM on Tuesday December 2, 2025, prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu in flowers, please make a donation through the funeral home to help cover funeral expenses.