Brian E Martin

Brian Ernest Martin, 87, of Newport, died peacefully at St. Clare Home on September 10, 2026. He was born on January 3, 1939, in Birmingham, England, the son of the late Reuben Martin and Jennie Phillips Martin.

Brian enlisted in the Royal Navy at age 14½, becoming a diver in the Bomb and Mine Disposal Unit and serving in the Admiralty Experimental Diving Unit. His service took him to England, Cyprus, Suez, and the Far East.

He also served as a police officer in Birmingham, England, and as an HMS Prison Hospital Officer on the Isle of Wight and in London.

After coming to the United States, Brian worked in the lumber industry and had his own renovation business. He enjoyed fishing, daily crossword puzzles, funny English expressions, and "It's lumpy out there today," meaning a rough sea, as well as "Eat it or beat it," when eating quickly. He was a past member of the EKH Singers and the Museum of Newport Irish History. He remained a loyal follower of Aston Villa Football Club of Birmingham.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Agnes; his stepsons, Sean Portley of Miami, Timothy Portley of Newport and his children, Grace, Finn, and Brian Portley of Coral Gables, Florida. He is also survived by his sister, Ann Martin of Litchfield, England; his brother, Keith, and his wife, Vicki, of Tamworth, England, and their families; his granddaughter, Det. Sgt. Helen Petts of Lincolnshire, England; his grandson, RAF Flight Sgt. Nathaniel Harris and his wife, Clare, of Yorkshire; and four great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his brother, Tony, and his daughter, Susan Harris.

His smile and caring way for those around him will be remembered. The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the staff of St. Clare Home for the compassionate care they provided to Brian.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, from 2:00-3:30 at Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport. A funeral service for Brian will be held immediately following at 3:30 in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Edward King House Senior Center, https://edwardkinghouse.org/