Bobby Lee

Roy Martin

Bobby Lee Roy Martin, son of the late Monte Earl Martin and Zella Norma (Buxton) Martin, was born in Patterson, Missouri, on December 4, 1949. He departed this life at Freeman West in Joplin, Missouri, on February 14, 2026, at the age of 76.

Bobby owned and operated B.L. Martin Excavating out of Pittsburg, Kansas, dedicating decades of hard work to the communities he loved. Over the years, he completed numerous projects throughout Pittsburg and Southeast Kansas, including work for the City of Pittsburg, Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg High School's former practice football field, and the local VFW, where he assisted with groundwork for the concrete slab supporting the tank that now stands there.

In recent years, he also completed projects for businesses in Joplin, Missouri, continuing to do the work he was so proud of. Bobby was widely respected for his skill and work ethic, and many considered him one of the finest heavy equipment operators in Southeast Kansas. He took great pride in leaving his mark on the communities he served. He was known for his steady hands and quiet strength.

Bobby enjoyed going to racing events and car shows. His greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially his grandkids.

Bobby was preceded in death by three brothers, Glenwood, Jim and Wayne Martin, nine sisters, Eunice Ruble, Maxine Quillman-Willis, Carol Kimes, Wanda Martin, Belle Johnson, Ethel Martin, Lois Long, Mary Smith and Joyce Wagner.

Bobby is survived by one son, Eric Martin of Joplin, Missouri, one daughter, Rachel Martin and husband Dalton Russell of Pittsburg, Kansas, three brothers, Carl Martin of Pipe Creek, Texas, Clifford Martin of Centerville, Missouri, and John Martin of Piedmont, Missouri, and two grandchildren, Maggie Goza and husband Tyler of Independence, Kansas, and Talan McDowell of Pittsburg, Kansas. Bobby will be deeply missed by his family and friends who will mourn his passing.

Visitation: Monday, February 23, 2026, 11AM-1PM at McSpadden Funeral Home, Ellington, Missouri

Funeral to follow at 1PM

Minister: Pastor Jim Stewart

Music: Randy Buxton

Burial: Hampton Cemetery

In Lieu of Flowers: Donations can be made to McSpadden Funeral Home to help with funeral expenses

Arrangements by McSpadden Funeral Home, Ellington, Missouri

There will be a Memorial Service for the Pittsburg, Kansas area that will be announced at a later date.