Ashtronaut Tribute: Coy Martin
Honoring Coy’s Journey to the Stars
As part of our Ashes to Space mission, we spotlight the lives and legacies of those who orbit with us—our Ashtronauts. Each tribute is submitted by loved ones who share a story, photos, and the spirit of someone worth remembering.
Today, we honor: Coy D. Martin
📍 From: Cushman, Arkansas; Nassau Bay & Denton, Texas
🧑🤝🧑 Shared by: Shirley A. Martin, Wife
These stories remind us why this mission matters—not just for space exploration, but for love, remembrance, and connection.
From Sky to Space: A Life of Service, Love, and Exploration
On June 3, 1940, in the quiet town of Cushman, Arkansas, Coy Dean Martin was born—a man whose life would ascend from humble beginnings to the vast expanse of space. His journey, marked by unwavering dedication, adventurous spirit, and profound love, left an indelible mark on those who knew him and the nation he served.
A Leap into the Skies
Coy’s early years were shaped by both hardship and resilience. At the tender age of 12, he faced the profound loss of his mother, an event that would instill in him a deep appreciation for family and life. Seeking purpose and direction, Coy enlisted in the U.S. Navy in November 1957. He often reflected, “the Navy saved my life,” a testament to the transformative impact of his service.
During his tenure, Coy became an original member of the Navy’s elite parachute exhibition team, the Chuting Stars. Formed in 1961 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of naval aviation, the Chuting Stars were pioneers in aerial demonstrations, captivating audiences across the nation. Stationed at Naval Air Facility El Centro, California, Coy and his teammates showcased the precision and daring of naval parachuting, laying the groundwork for future teams like the Leap Frogs and developing novel parachute designs that would later be used for recreational parasailing.
A Stellar Career at NASA
After his honorable discharge in May 1962, Coy transitioned seamlessly into a civilian role that would span over four decades. Joining NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, he dedicated 42 years to advancing America’s space endeavors, including training the Gemini astronauts. As a Quality Assurance Branch Chief, Coy played a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and success of numerous missions, contributing to the legacy of human space exploration.
His commitment to excellence and meticulous attention to detail earned him the respect of colleagues and the admiration of those who understood the gravity of his responsibilities. Coy’s work behind the scenes was instrumental in propelling humanity beyond Earth’s confines.
A Love Written in the Stars
Beyond his professional achievements, Coy’s heart belonged to Shirley, affectionately known to him as “SAM.” Their union on June 3, 1981, at the Little Church of the West in Las Vegas, Nevada, marked the beginning of a partnership defined by mutual respect, unwavering support, and deep affection.
Shirley recalls, “Coy loved this country, a great American patriot… He believed in God and loved his family and especially me.” Their bond was evident in every facet of their lives, from shared adventures to quiet moments of gratitude. Even in his final days, Coy’s words to Shirley were filled with love and appreciation: “Babe, we’ve always been a team.”
A Final Journey Among the Stars
Coy never knew about Space Beyond during his lifetime—but Shirley did. After his passing, she came across an interview describing how our orbital memorials eventually reenter the atmosphere after up to 25 years, appearing in the sky like a shooting star. At that moment, everything clicked.
Shirley had already fulfilled nearly every wish Coy had made for his passing, but this one felt different. “I knew then,” she said, “Coy’s ashes had to be launched.”
A lifelong parachutist, a man who jumped for his country and trained for the impossible, Coy will now complete one final, extraordinary flight—this time, beyond the clouds, beyond the atmosphere, into orbit. His journey will culminate one day, years from now, in a brilliant streak across the sky, a celestial echo of the Chuting Star legacy he helped pioneer.
Part of his ashes will be scattered at sea, as he wished. But another part will join a mission he never imagined—one that reflects everything he stood for: courage, wonder, and the boundless pursuit of what lies beyond.
Remembering Coy D. Martin
Coy Martin’s life was a tapestry woven with threads of courage, dedication, and love. From his daring leaps as a Navy parachutist to his steadfast contributions at NASA, he embodied the spirit of exploration and service. His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.
As we look up at the stars, we remember Coy’s journey and the spirit that propelled him from the skies of Earth to the vastness of space.
🌌 A Journey Beyond Earth
A portion of Coy’s ashes will be launched to space aboard our upcoming mission, where they will orbit Earth as part of a lasting celestial tribute.
Whether stargazing from home or tracking the spacecraft through the app, Coy’s loved ones will be able to follow the journey—knowing that their story is quite literally written in the stars.
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3 Responses
What an honorable life lived! Uncle Coy would have probably chosen this last flight, if he had known about it.
Soar in Peace!
Very fitting tribute!
What an awesome honor! Reach for the stars 💙