Bruce R. (Rex) Martin III, of Galveston, Texas, passed away on January 17, 2026. He was born on April 18, 1959, to Bruce R. Martin Jr. and Mildred Scroggins Martin.

Rex was a beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend to many. He touched countless lives with his charm, quick wit, infectious laughter, and—most of all—his remarkable ability to make friends wherever he went.

Rex spent his early years on Glenburnie Drive in Houston, Texas, making memories with his sisters, Sylvia and Denise. Even then, his creativity and passion for outdoor projects were evident, as he frequently recruited helpers to bring his many ideas to life.

The family later moved to Bay City, Texas, where Rex formed many lifelong friendships. As he grew, so did his creativity. His love for horticulture and the outdoors led to multiple redesigns of his parents’ yard, including the construction of several landscape fountains. After graduating from high school, Rex attended Wharton Junior College, the University of Houston, and Texas A&M University before ultimately graduating from St. Edward’s University with a degree in photojournalism.

Following college, Rex spent many years in Waco, Texas, where he was truly in his element. He put his many talents to work flipping houses—none of which were complete without significant landscaping upgrades and, of course, a fountain or two. During this time, Rex also discovered a love for stage design. Each December, he eagerly designed and decorated the stage for the Waco Symphony Christmas concerts. He served as a production photographer for the Waco Musical Theater and generously shared his gift by photographing the weddings of his nieces and nephews.

Though Rex loved Waco, Galveston was calling. He found the perfect fixer-upper and moved to the island to begin a new chapter. He poured his heart into restoring his home and creating a stunning yard. Rex loved being outdoors and always had a project in progress—or a new one already forming in his mind. Rex fit a remarkable amount of life and laughter into his years, and we are all better for having had him in our lives.

Rex was preceded in death by his parents, Bruce and Mildred Martin, and his sister, Sylvia
Reimer.

He is survived by his sister Denise Rodgers and her husband Tom; brother-in-law Jerry Reimer; nieces Kym Teal and her husband Scott, and Christy Collins and her husband Vic; nephews Larry Currie and his partner Gena, and Matt Rodgers and his wife Liz; great-nieces and great- nephews Tyler (Dave), Hayley (Justice), Jacob (Tiana), Grace (Jesse), Kaylee, Emily, Kathryn, Aleksandr, and Iris; close friend Jerry MacLauchlin; his beloved dog, Zinnia; and many other cherished relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.