Matthew Christian "Matt"

Martin

Matthew Christian “Matt” Martin, age 55, of Gulf Shores, Alabama, and formerly of Cornelia, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, November 1, 2026, just one day shy of his 56th birthday.

Born in Gainesville, Georgia, on November 2, 1970, Matt was the beloved son of Richard Allen “Red” Martin and Helen Gay “Goo” Martin. He was a proud graduate of Riverside Military Academy, Class of 1989.

Matt was a gifted and passionate chef who had a remarkable talent for bringing people together through his love of food. He was currently serving as Executive Chef with the Columbus Clingstones, a position that allowed him to share his creativity and culinary talents with others. For Matt, cooking was more than a profession; it was an expression of who he was and a way of bringing joy to those around him.

A true free spirit with a larger-than-life personality, Matt never met a stranger. His outgoing nature, infectious enthusiasm, and genuine love for people made him someone who could light up a room and turn an ordinary gathering into a memorable occasion. Whether sharing a delicious meal, enjoying good music, casting a fishing line, or simply spending time with family and friends, Matt embraced life with an adventurous spirit and a heart full of passion. He will be remembered for his warm personality, his extraordinary culinary gifts, and the countless friendships he made along life's journey.

Above all, Matt leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories with those who knew and loved him. Though his earthly journey ended far too soon, the laughter he shared, the meals he prepared, and the love he gave will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Matt was preceded in death by his grandparents, Sidney and Lena Jabaley Gay and Floyd C. Martin; uncle, Bill Martin; and cousin, Connie Martin Gosnell.

Survivors include his beloved children, Truett E. Woods-Martin and Adalena S. Woods-Martin; loving parents, Richard “Red” Martin and Helen Gay “Goo” Martin; sister and brother-in-law, Lacy and Michael Hastie; grandmother, Mary Lou Martin; niece, Helena O. Hastie; nephew, Charlie F. Hastie; uncle, Sidney Michael Gay; numerous cousins, other relatives, and a host of dear friends whose lives were made brighter by knowing him.

A Celebration of Matt's Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 5, 2026, at Grace Calvary Episcopal Church, with the Rev. Michelle Fritch officiating. A reception will immediately follow the service in the Church Parish Hall, providing an opportunity for family and friends to gather, share memories, and celebrate a life that touched so many.

An online guest registry is available for the Martin family at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com.

McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706-778-8668), is honored to serve the family of Matthew Christian Martin.