During a heartfelt funeral service, the family of social media influencer Tanner Martin shared how he found solace and strength in his battle with stage IV cancer. His mother, Kimberly Martin, delivered an emotional eulogy at the memorial service held on Saturday, July 5, highlighting her son’s unwavering faith and positivity.
“You have been an outstanding example of faith,” Kimberly Martin expressed, recounting how Tanner, despite his illness, would attend sacrament meetings in his pajamas and robe. “You taught me that you can see the blessings and love in our Savior in any situation. Because of that, it brings happiness.”
Tanner Martin, who was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer in 2020, two years after marrying his wife, Shay Wright, had been documenting his journey on social media. Earlier this month, he announced his own passing through a pre-recorded video. He was 30 years old.
A Journey of Faith and Resilience
Kimberly Martin shared a poignant memory of accompanying her son during chemotherapy sessions. “A couple years ago, I sat with you as you received chemo,” she recalled. “It was quiet with a few other patients all getting chemo. I just asked you, ‘Are you angry or frustrated because I am?’ He looked surprised and said to me, ‘Ma, because of cancer, I have been so blessed. I’ve been able to experience our Savior’s love for me through others. I know I’m loved by my family, friends, and those I interact with during treatments.’”
Tanner’s perspective on his illness was both remarkable and inspiring. He credited his terminal condition for introducing him to the compassionate nurses, doctors, and fellow patients who became part of his journey. “‘I actually feel blessed,'” Kimberly remembered him saying, emphasizing his choice to remain happy and grateful despite adversity.
The Impact of Tanner’s Legacy
Tanner Martin is survived by his parents, Kimberly and Thomas Martin, his brother Spencer Martin, his wife Shay Wright, and their newborn daughter, Amy Lou. His mother continued to reflect on Tanner’s enduring influence, saying, “Watching you and Shay grow your family has been such a blessing and miracle to all of us. You have left an amazing legacy of faith, kindness, love, and what it means to be a true disciple of our Savior for our sweet Amy Lou.”
Thomas Martin, Tanner’s father, also shared his thoughts during the service. “It is an honor and pleasure to be his dad — and it still is,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. “Shay has just been a wonderful companion. They got two years before he was diagnosed, and then they had five years with doctors’ visits and the struggle and the fight. There were still a lot of good times in those five years, but there were still a lot of other times, too. It sometimes doesn’t seem fair that I’ve had 30 Father’s Days, and Tanner had one.”
Reflections on Life and Love
The announcement of Tanner’s passing has resonated deeply with his followers and the broader community, highlighting the impact of his positive outlook and resilience. His story is a testament to the power of faith and the human spirit in the face of life’s most challenging moments.
As the world continues to reflect on Tanner Martin’s life, his legacy of love and positivity serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for many. His journey reminds us all of the importance of cherishing each moment and finding joy even amidst adversity.
