Alexander "Marty" Martin Corley, Jr.

Alexander Martin “Marty” Corley passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, January 4, 2026, following a brief illness. He was born on January 31, 1947, and grew up in Aiken County, Salley, South Carolina.

Marty lived a life filled with music, joy, and love. Music was not only his passion, but his calling. Remarkably, he performed at Tybee Time on Saturday night—just before his passing—continuing a tradition of providing music there every weekend for many years. His musical journey began in the late 1960s and early 1970s, when he performed as part of a duo with Bob Smith, leaving a lasting impression on all who heard him.

To many, Marty was a real-life “Peter Pan,” someone who refused to let go of joy, fun, and wonder, choosing instead to keep music, laughter, love, and happiness at the center of his life. Others affectionately compared him to Santa Claus—generous, warm-hearted, and beloved by all. Marty truly loved everyone, and everyone loved Marty.

Marty was preceded in death by his parents, Alec M. Corley and Saledo Hutto Corley Juhan, as well as his immediate family. He is survived by a few cousins and distant relatives. He was unmarried and had no children; however, he counted hundreds—if not thousands—of friends as his family.

Marty was married to Elaine Spiva for a brief period. It was noted that his marriage occurred on Halloween day preventing a young Howard Spiva from trick-or -treating. Howard eventually forgave Marty when the wedding date was blamed on Elaine, Howard’s sister.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam era and was honorably discharged. As a result of exposure to Agent Orange, Marty was later medically disabled.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 12:00 noon at Gamble Funeral Service, with Reverend Tim Brown officiating. Arrangements are also being made for a military burial to be scheduled with the United States Army.

In lieu of flowers, Marty requested that memorial donations be made in his name to A Helping Hand Up of Georgia, Inc. (A-HUG) or The Justice for Children Foundation, Inc., both 501(c)(3) charitable organizations that he actively supported and cared deeply about.

Marty Corley leaves behind a legacy of music, kindness, service, and joy that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Marty's Memorial service will be live streamed via ZOOM at:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/5052277485?pwd=TUVSU3ZMS2FXS09IcnJJbURtZWJHUT09&omn=83656196423