Robert G. Martley, Jr., 64, of Portsmouth, RI passed away peacefully at home with his wife, Celeste, and daughters, Collette and Suzanne, by his side on Saturday, May 23, 2026, after a hard-fought battle with ALS.
Bob wasn’t just the life of the party; he was the party. He made friends everywhere he went and loved to make people laugh. Despite his diagnosis, he maintained an extremely positive attitude and zest for life. He will always be remembered for his resilience, welcoming nature, and great smile.
Bob grew up in Middletown, RI and graduated from Middletown High School in 1979. His childhood was largely shaped by his time at the Episcopal Conference Center’s summer camp in Pascoag, RI, where he formed many cherished lifelong friendships.
After high school, Bob enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and proudly served our country for four years. Upon his return to Rhode Island, he began his storied Newport restaurant career. Most notably, he spent many summers bartending at the West Deck, where he became affectionately known as “Deuce”.
In 2006, Bob joined the Teamsters Local 25 Union as a truck driver for Stop and Shop, where he spent the remainder of his career. He took great pride in his work and loved being part of the Teamster brotherhood.
Of the many jobs Bob had, the most important was being a father – he was a true family man. He loved nothing more than spending time with his family, whether it be going to Fenway for Red Sox games, traveling, skiing, sailing, or just enjoying a nice cocktail.
In addition to his wife and twin daughters, Bob is survived by his three sisters, Carolyn Martley Vamvakis, Janet Martley Bolender, and Patricia Martley, as well as many other beloved family members. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Grace Martley.
Visiting hours will be held Wednesday, May 27th from 4:00-7:00 PM at O’Neill-Hayes Funeral Home, 465 Spring St, Newport, RI. The funeral services will be private. All are welcome to Bob’s Celebration of Life on Sunday, June 28th from 4:00-7:00 PM at Atlantic Resort at Wyndham Newport Hotel, 240 Aquidneck Ave, Middletown, RI.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Compassionate Care ALS, 17 Chase Rd, Falmouth, MA 02540 (www.ccals.org), or New England Disabled Sports, 39 Loon Brook Rd, Lincoln, NH 03251 (www.nedisabledsports.org).
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