Steven Eugene Martin

Steven Eugene Martin, 79, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, surrounded by the family who loved him most. Although many knew him as Steve, to his family he was simply "Martin," a name spoken with love for decades. Steve was born on March 21, 1947, in Mesa, Arizona, to Ralph and Marian Martin, who preceded him in death. Steve lived a life defined by curiosity, quiet generosity, steadfast friendship, and unwavering devotion to his family. He is survived by his lifelong partner, Theresa "Teri" Gaumer; the daughters he helped raise and loved as his own, Jasmin Gaumer Bowden (Nick) and Kacey Gaumer Murray (Justin); and the six grandchildren who were the absolute joy of his life: Broughton, Evelyn, Colette, and Maverick Bowden, and Graham and Vivian Murray. His six grandchildren were his greatest joy. They adored their "Grandpa Mart," and there was nothing that brought him greater happiness than watching them grow, teaching them something new, making them laugh, and simply spending time together. Every moment with them was precious. Steve earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Arizona State University, a Master of Science in Physics from the University of Arizona, a Master of Science in Mathematics from the University of Arizona, and a Master of Science in Computer Science from Virginia Commonwealth University. In 1979, Steve joined Richard Bland College of William & Mary, where he devoted the next 37 years to educating and mentoring generations of students. He served as Associate Professor of Mathematics and Computer Science and as Division Chair of Science and Quantitative Methods. Following his retirement in 2016, he was honored with the title of Associate Professor Emeritus of Mathematics and Computer Science, recognizing his decades of dedicated service to the college and its students. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Steve had an insatiable curiosity and a lifelong love of learning. Whether he was solving a Rubik's Cube, working a Sudoku or crossword puzzle, reading a mystery novel, or answering nearly every clue on Jeopardy!, he found joy in keeping his mind active. He also loved traveling and especially cherished spending time with his "Gaumer Girls" and his grandchildren. Anyone who met Steve quickly learned that he had a wonderfully dry sense of humor. Whenever someone realized his name was Steve Martin, he was quick to joke that "he looks different in person", a line that never failed to make people smile. Steve will be remembered not only for his brilliant mind, but for his patience, quiet wisdom, dry sense of humor, unwavering kindness, and steadfast presence in the lives of those he loved. He never needed a title to be a father figure, a mentor, or a friend. He simply showed up year after year and milestone after milestone with a listening ear, thoughtful advice, and unconditional love. His legacy lives on in the countless students he inspired, the family he helped shape, and the memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association in Steve's honor, helping advance research and support for individuals and families affected by dementia.