The city of St. John’s has lost a man whose easy smile and gentle nature had become a familiar comfort to those who knew him. Alexander Keith Martin, known to everyone as Sandy, died peacefully on April 9, 2026, just three days before his 75th birthday. He was born on April 12, 1951, and spent most of his years in the Newfoundland capital, where he built a life centered on the people he loved most.
Sandy was a devoted husband to his wife, Deborah, and a proud father to his daughters, Kellie and Debbie, as well as his stepdaughter, Juanita. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought endless smiles to his days, and he took immense joy in watching them grow. Family was not just a part of his life; it was the reason for it.
He was a man who thrived on simple pleasures. He never tired of watching episodes of The Deadliest Catch, fascinated by the rough seas and the brave fishermen who worked them. He loved heading out on the ocean to fish himself, feeling the salt spray and the tug of a line.
And when he wanted to feel truly free, he would take his motorcycle out for a ride, the open road stretching ahead of him. Those who knew him best remember his natural talent for storytelling. He could turn an ordinary evening into something special, drawing people together with laughter and shared moments that became treasured memories.
Sandy’s kind and caring nature showed itself in the way he always stepped forward to help others. He offered a hand with tasks, listened with genuine interest, and made people feel truly valued. In the St. John’s community, he was remembered as someone whose quiet generosity created a sense of belonging that extended far beyond his own circle. Friends spoke of his reliability and the comfort his friendship brought during both good times and hard times.
He was predeceased by his mother, Ruth; his father, Alexander; his sister, Sandra Kane; and several other close relatives. He is survived by his devoted wife, Deborah; his daughters, Kellie (Mark) and Debbie (Sean); his stepdaughter, Juanita (Keith); his grandchildren, Kayla, Courtney, Daniel, and Colton, along with their partners; his great-grandchildren, Declan, Liam, and Connor; and a wide circle of dear friends and extended family members who felt like blood. These relationships formed the heart of a life lived with deep loyalty and affection.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and again from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Carnell’s Funeral Home on Freshwater Road in St. John’s. The funeral service will take place the following day, Friday, April 17, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at the same location, officiated by Pastor Jason Martin. Cremation will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sandy’s memory.
The family will gather to share stories, to laugh and cry, and to honor a man whose kindness and love for life will be remembered for years to come. Sandy was not a man who sought the spotlight. He was content to live quietly, to love deeply, and to be there for the people who mattered most. His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but his memory will remain a gentle presence in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
