Xavier "Zay" Martin

Xavier “Zay” Martin Sr., age 46 of High Point, NC, departed this earthly life on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Atrium Wake Forest High Point Medical Center. He was born on January 28,1980 in Forsyth County, to Vickie Martin Bryant and the late Sheldon Shipp.

Zay possessed a larger-than-life personality, a contagious smile, and a heart that made room for everyone he encountered.

A native of High Point, North Carolina, Zay attended T. Wingate Andrews High School and later earned his GED. He was a gifted and talented athlete whose presence on the baseball field, football field, and basketball court could never be ignored. With his athletic ability, and natural charisma, everyone knew they were about to witness something special. Zay was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys; win or lose, his loyalty never wavered.

Known affectionately by many as the “Preacher Man” during his high school years, Zay always had a sermon, a lesson, or a word of wisdom for somebody. Whether you wanted it or not, he was going to say it. He could make you laugh until your stomach hurt, bring tears to your eyes, and leave you seriously contemplating your life choices all in the same conversation. Zay had a gift for connecting with people. Whether you were from the Southside of High Point, Winston-Salem, or somewhere in between, chances are Zay knew you-or knew somebody who knew you. He left a lasting imprint on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. His laughter, stories, and unforgettable personality will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

More importantly, Zay knew the Lord. His faith and spiritual foundation remained with him throughout his life and helped guide him through both triumphs and challenges. He believed in God, and that belief stayed rooted deep within his heart.

Zay was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Helen V. Clyburn-Martin, Arthur Martin Sr., Alyce Shipp, and Franklin Cundiff; and his sister, LaShana R. Robbins.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his loving parents, Vickie Martin-Bryant and Wayne Bryant of High Point, NC; his children, Amari Kirk of Birmingham, AL, Xavier “Lil Zay” Martin, Zariyah Martin, Xaria Kea, and Decory Kea, all of High Point, NC; his devoted fiancé, Latisha “Tish” Barber of High Point, NC; his sisters, Kisha Bryant of Brooklyn, NY, LaShema Funderburk of Brown Summit, NC, Chiquita Funderburk, Senetra Funderburk, Lashica Friende of Norcross, GA, LaShawn C.E. Thomas, and Etaundra T. Thomas; his brothers, JD Bryant of Reseda, CA and Corey (Wynette) Southerland of Greensboro, NC and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and countless friends whose lives were forever touched by his love, humor, wisdom, and unforgettable spirit.

Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing that Zay’s legacy lives on through the many lives he impacted. His laughter will echo in our memories, his lessons will remain in our hearts, and his love will continue to guide us.

Forever Loved. Forever Missed. FOREVER ZAY.