Family, city leaders and community remember Arthur “Big Art” Martin at Miami Beach memorial

Family members, law enforcement colleagues and city officials gathered at a Miami Beach memorial service to honor Arthur “Big Art” Martin, who served 28 years with the Miami Beach Police Department and for 15 years as executive director of the Miami Beach Police Athletic League (PAL).

Speakers recounted Martin’s work mentoring young people, his military service and the reach of his community programs. The service included readings from the Bible, multiple eulogies and a public motorcade past PAL and municipal buildings that speakers said drew hundreds of onlookers.

“He embodied everything that we value: integrity, honesty, compassion,” said Vice Mayor Dania Baat, speaking in her official capacity for the City of Miami Beach. Baat said Martin’s work with young people and his personal warmth left a lasting mark on the community.

Eric Carpenter, City Manager of the City of Miami Beach, called Martin “the personification of a life spent in selfless service to others,” noting Martin’s military service in the Air Force and two decades-plus with the police department. Carpenter said Martin “gave his all to everyone” and highlighted Martin’s leadership of PAL, where he connected thousands of children to sports and mentorship programs.

Family members described Martin as devoted to his wife and children and as a steady presence for the young people in PAL. Deborah Montano, identified in the service as Martin’s wife, read a personal letter that said in part, “You are my eternal flame, my forever love,” and pledged to continue Martin’s work with PAL.

Other speakers included Linda Roberts, executive director for North Miami Beach PAL, Delroy Shultz (who described Martin as a supportive colleague across jurisdictions), and Robin Starks, who identified herself as a training advisor and former Miami-area colleague. Martin’s son, who identified himself as Sinak, and other children and relatives gave personal remembrances about his role as father, coach and community leader.

A eulogist who read a memorial summary said Martin was born Oct. 31, 1970, and died Jan. 23, 2025. The same speaker described a motorcade that passed PAL, the fire and police departments and drew a large public turnout: “When we hit Miami Beach...100 of people were watching the motorcade go by,” the speaker said.

Speakers emphasized continuity of Martin’s community work. Deborah Montano told attendees she intends to “take this [PAL] to the next level,” and several presenters urged the audience to carry forward Martin’s commitments to mentoring and youth programming.

The service combined religious readings and prayers with testimonials from city officials, PAL leaders and family members. Attendees included municipal officials and law enforcement personnel who lined portions of the procession route; witnesses described a visible turnout from neighbors and local first responders.

The memorial concluded with final prayers and an invitation to remember Martin’s public service and private commitments to family and youth mentorship.