MADISON, NJ (CelebrityAccess) — Tony Martell, founder of the T.J. Martell foundation dedicated to supporting leukemia, cancer and AIDS research, o passed away Sunday, November 27th, 2016 at the age of 90.
In a statement posted on the T.J. Martell Foundation's website, a rep said:
"Tony taught us all how to keep fighting for what we believe in and to do what we can to help others in need. He never gave up on his fight to find a cure for cancer and through his passion, energy, and perseverance the T.J. Martell Foundation has supported flagship hospitals in the United States and raised over $270 million for leukemia, cancer, and AIDS research.
"Tony's smile, energy, and incredible devotion will be missed beyond words. We will work even harder now to keep his memory and dream alive and one day finding a cure for the diseases that he spent his life fighting. In honor of his son T.J. for whom the foundation is named, we celebrate the life of Tony Martell whose work saved lives, provided patients with innovative treatments and gave thousands of people hope. We will miss you, Tony."
A veteran A&R exec who worked with artists such as the Isley Brothers and Stevie Ray Vaughan, launched the Martell Foundation in 1975 after his 19-year-old son died of leukemia. Since then, the foundation has raised more than $270 million to support research in finding cures for AIDs, cancer, and leukemia through benefit concerts and events.
Martell was preceded in death by his wife Vicky Martell, who died in February of this year, and is survived by a daughter. – Staff Writers
