Steve, Laura, and Ellie,

I wanted to reach out to you to talk about Jack after his Celebration of Life. I am so sorry that I didn’t get up to talk about him, but I felt it was more a space for family and close friends.

Ellie, I have to tell you just how proud I am of you. I personally find it difficult to breathe at these types of services, but Ellie, you did such a fabulous job organizing your speakers, keeping the ball rolling, and talking about Jack in a current and loving way. He would have loved it. Seeing you fill that space assures me that you will be ok and that you can move forward without letting this set you back, he wouldn’t have wanted that.

I have thought of him so very much since the event. Jack worked with Sarasota Bay Watch multiple times over the years: cleanups, scallop restoration, clam releases, and tabling events. If Jack Martin was at an event, it was a sunny day! I loved seeing him. His smile was illuminating. He was always helpful, cheerful, and polite. He was competent on and in the water. He often brought friends to events with him, so it was always fun. He loved being part off the project and outside.

I could trust Jack. He was good with other people and was really so beautiful that people were attracted to him. It was great to have him in the Sarasota Bay Watch tribe. He was a shiny penny.

I have Jack’s picture on a banner with Lauren Jeffrey that I use. Jack was holding a 5-gallon bucket that may have been bigger around than he was at the time. When I see it, I smile. Unless you object, I would love to still use that photo.

It is the roll of the dice what happens to us in life. It can’t be predicted or controlled. As heartbreaking as it is that he is no longer with us, maybe he just shone too brightly to stay with the rest of us.

With the service over it may feel as though people might begin to forget Jack. I will never forget Jack Martin. I really loved that kid and when I think of him, I smile. Like I said if Jack was part of it, you were going to have a good time.

My thoughts are with you and all those that loved Jack Martin, there were a bunch of us.

Ronda Ryan

(Sarasota Bay Watch)

There are people who cross our paths and quietly redirect the course of our lives. Jack was one of those people for me. I never would have lived in Sarasota without him — and looking back, that one decision shaped who I became.

Jack had this way of bringing meaning to the moment. He didn’t force it; it just happened in his presence. He could take an ordinary day — a walk, a talk, a laugh — and make it matter. He made people feel valued, and that’s not a small thing. That’s a rare gift.

He reminded us that life isn’t about control or perfection. It’s about courage, kindness, and showing up — especially when it’s inconvenient. Jack did that, over and over again.

And so tonight, as we honor him, we do more than remember — we inherit the responsibility to keep that light alive. To laugh the way he laughed. To love the way he loved. To make the people around us feel what he made us feel: that they mattered.

So very sad to learn of Jack's passing. He was a great kid and I loved him. Sending prayers.

Mary Hinton

Just heard about Jack.   My prayers for him and his family.   Such a beautiful soul.    Met Jack last spring when he was staying in Boston.    Had the pleasure of introducing him to his first lobster and steamers.    He was so alive.    The world is a little poorer. 

I’ll always remember Jack as such a sweet, kind-hearted guy. Most of my memories of him are from when he was little, and I truly cherish them. I used to “help” Liza babysit him and Ellie, and it was always so much fun. He had this joyful energy and the warmest smile, and every time I saw him as an adult, that never changed. I’m grateful to have known him through the years, and my heart breaks over losing him.

Laura, Steve, and Ellie, I’m so sorry for your loss. It’s a privilege to know and love your family. Thinking about you and sending you strength and love.

Laura, Ellie and SteveI am so saddened and broken hearted to have heard the terrible news.   Words cannot express my sorrow.   Sending you all my love and support.   

Rest in Peace Jack.  

 My son Michael and he were baptized together at 360 Church! I’m looking for the picture but I haven’t been able to find it when I do I’ll come back and post

Love

Varinia Van Ness