Wayne Lee Martin

Wayne Lee Martin (Beachdaddy), age 74, of Destin, Florida, passed away on May 27, 2025, in the place he most loved, Destin.

Wayne was born on March 9, 1951, in Springdale, Arkansas, to William Clarence Martin and Bonnie Fern Upshaw. He was raised with strong family values and a love for life that would carry him through his many roles as a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and business owner.

He graduated from Chaffey High School in California before building a life rooted in hard work, entrepreneurship, and family. Wayne raised his children in Jacksonville, Florida, where he owned and operated Pest Pro of Jacksonville. He later moved to the Gulf Coast where he became the co-owner of Coastal Cabinets & Countertops, Inc., running the successful business alongside his wife, Sharon and step-son, Collin, until his retirement in November 2024.

Wayne was best known as “Beachdaddy,” a fitting name for a man who loved the water. He most loved early morning paddle boarding and afternoons on the sand. He was a huge fan of the Florida State Seminoles, the Tennessee Volunteers, and the Tampa Bay Rays, and spent many hours watching games with his family.

For Wayne, there were no strangers; he epitomized the phrase “To know him is to love him”. 

Wayne is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon Martin of Destin; his children: Kellea Martin LeSage (Cameron), Kristee Martin Ford (Bill), Collin Sanders, and Patrick Sanders; his grandchildren: Kylee LeSage, Cami Landry (Matt), William Ford, Grayson LeSage, Karsyn Lee Ford, Kora Ford, Preston Sanders, and Charlotte Sanders; and great-grandchildren, Theo Landry and Meli Landry.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister, Vickey Jeneane.

A sunset celebration of Wayne’s life will take place on the beach at 6:00 p.m. on October 9, 2025 at his favorite spot, Crystal Beach (off Old 98 in Destin), lovingly known as Beachdaddy’s beach. The celebration will continue with an afternoon at the Destin Rodeo on October 10th. Both gatherings will offer family and friends a chance to share memories, find comfort, and honor a life well lived. Additional details will be shared by the family.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all who have supported them with love and kindness during this time. Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home.

To share memories, express condolences, or sign the guestbook, please visit www.daviswatkins.com