“Grady’s legacy will live on in every smile at the Tomball German Festivals, in every shared story, and in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him,” his family said via his obituary.
The big picture
Born in Mississippi, Martin was an entrepreneur and small business owner, according to his obituary. In 2000, he and his wife Sandra founded the Tomball German Heritage Festivals, which started with five vendors in its first year, and has since grown to over 150 vendors, four live music stages and over 30 entertainers.
“His deep love for people and the Tomball community was evident in every detail of the festival and remains a living tribute to his vision and generosity,” his family said.
Martin was also a historian, art enthusiast and loved antiques, according to his obituary.
“Those closest to him will remember his warm spirit, his storytelling and his passion for preserving culture and bringing people together,” his family said.
In their own words
Martin’s impact on Tomball stretched far beyond the festivals he helped build. As co-founder of the Tomball German Heritage Festivals and a key member of the Tomball Sister Cities organization, Martin was known for his kindness, perseverance and unwavering dedication to community.
“He was a real gentleman,” said Bruce Hillegeist, president of the Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce. “He was meek, not weak, but polite and friendly to everyone. He had a lot of wisdom and was just the right person to lead the German Fest.”
Hillegeist said he remembers walking with Martin through festival vendor rows, where he was greeted warmly at nearly every booth.
“The vendors respected him so much. That said everything,” Hillegeist said.
Craig Bogner, Sister Cities board member and a Tomball German Heritage Festival organizer, said Martin was his mentor and that Martin wanted the German Festival to continue after his passing, working closely with Bogner over the last decade to make that possible.
“His legacy is the German Festival,” Bogner said.
Sister Cities member Kit Pfeiffer said Martin greeted, helped and encouraged everyone.
“He had to be one of the sweetest, kindest, most gracious people I have ever known,” Pfeiffer said.
Those closest to him said Martin treated everyone like family, and he truly wished everyone the best of luck.
“The way Grady's eyes would light up when he would see someone he knew,” said Amy Mason, director of communications for the Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce. “He had a way of making you feel so excitedly welcomed and loved the second you walked through the door.”
What they’re saying
- “If you ever met Grady, then you met a friend for life,” officials with the Tomball German Festivals said via Facebook. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Sandra and his family, his TSCO family, and friends.”
- “This loss hits hard and he will be missed greatly,” Tomball Farmers Market officials said via Facebook. “Much love, prayers and healing light to his family, friends and our community.”
- “Our hearts are breaking,” officials with the Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce said via Facebook. “Thank you for putting your heart and soul into our community and beyond.”
- “We are saddened to hear of the passing of Grady Martin. Grady played such a meaningful role in shaping the spirit of our community,” Visit Tomball officials said via Facebook. “Grady Martin’s dedication, warmth, and years of service left a lasting impact on Tomball. His legacy can be felt in the traditions we cherish and the connections we hold dear.”
In lieu of flowers, Martin’s family is requesting donations to the Grady Martin Scholarship Fund, which gives scholarships to students furthering their education in the German language or international or exchange studies.
