Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

September 27, 2025

CHARLOTTE – Martin Pusser died peacefully on Saturday, September 27, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved, most especially the nieces and nephews he cherished.  Born October 24, 1960, he was the first child of Theodore Randolph (Randy) and Virginia Osteen (Jenny) Pusser.  His family ultimately grew to include siblings Lee, Tommy and Stephen.

Martin was as North Carolina as one could be.  Born and raised in Charlotte, a Tar Heel to his core, he loved basketball, BBQ and bluegrass…and Neil Young.  More than that, he loved people and their stories.  Martin’s joy for life and generous spirit was evident in everyday conversations about wine, concerts or maybe an ode to the perfect hushpuppy.  Your day couldn’t help but be brighter after a visit or conversation with him.

Martin’s spirit led him to leave Charlotte after high school at Myers Park.  He moved to Boston, enjoying music festivals and live shows, until returning in his mid-twenties.  He found his home in Asheville, where he lived for more than 30 years, much of that time as an account representative for fine wines.  Martin thrived in the wine business, because of his love of people and the opportunities to introduce and educate them about wine.  He loved Asheville and the surrounding towns, especially the people that lived there. 

In 2017, Martin returned to Charlotte to be close to family.  He joined The Laurel Market as Beverage Manager where he quickly found his home.  It wasn’t long before the regulars christened Martin the “Ambassador of Laurel Market,” a moniker he enthusiastically embraced. The Laurel provided the perfect place for his love of good wine, good coffee and good conversation with people from all walks of life.  He felt deeply that each interaction with someone held a lesson and made his life richer.   What he didn’t know was the impact these moments had on others.  He was everyone’s greatest cheerleader.  His legacy is one of boundless optimism and undying loyalty. 

Martin is survived by his mother, Virginia Osteen Pusser of Charlotte, NC; three siblings, Lee Pusser McColl (John) of Atlanta, GA, Thomas Louis Pusser (Shearer Pettigrew) of Richmond, VA and Stephen Edward Pusser (Robin Dale) of Durham, NC; seven nieces and nephews, John Spratt McColl, Jr. of New York, NY, Thomas Duncan McColl (Emily) of Atlanta, GA, Virginia Lee McColl of New York, NY, John Samuel Pettigrew Pusser of Richmond, VA, Skyler Grace Pettigrew Pusser of Richmond, VA, Ada Margaret Pusser of Durham, NC and Dean Wilson Pusser of Durham, NC. 

A service to celebrate his life will be at 4:00 PM, Saturday, October 11, 2025, at The Common Market Oakwold, 4420-A Monroe Road, Charlotte, NC.

In lieu of flowers, a gift in Martin’s memory may be made to Beloved Asheville, PO Box 6386, Asheville, NC 28816.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606.  Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.