Lendrell Martin, BCIT and Drexel alumnus remembered for technical mastery, mentorship, and cross-state activism
Orange, N.J. — Lendrell Levi Martin, a respected New York–based fashion designer, mentor, and youth advocate with deep ties to North Carolina and New Jersey communities, died on June 9, 2025, in Orange, New Jersey. He was 37.
Martin, widely admired for his technical excellence and elegant design sensibility, built a career that fused artistic precision with social purpose. As a senior technical designer, consultant, and founder of his own label, Martin also remained a committed mentor to emerging creatives and a constant supporter of grassroots youth development programs—including BSI-Greensboro, a nonprofit close to his heart.
Though no official cause of death was immediately disclosed, tributes have flooded in across social media and fashion circles, remembering him not only for his talent but his generosity of spirit.
“Not only was he an amazing fashion designer,” wrote one colleague, “but a strong advocate for BSI-Greensboro. He was ALWAYS looking for ways to stay connected and support us—even from New York.”
From BCIT to Fashion’s Front Lines
Martin was born on March 14, 1988, and raised in New Jersey. He graduated from Burlington County Institute of Technology, where he first distinguished himself as a standout student in fashion and FCCLA programs. He later earned a degree in fashion design from Drexel University, solidifying his technical skills and conceptual foundation.
Martin’s early promise quickly evolved into a career defined by innovation and impact. Based in the New York–New Jersey fashion corridor, he worked with major brands and most recently held the role of Senior Technical Designer at Madewell, a leading name in modern retail.
His designs, often featured on his digital platform lendrellmartin.com, blended precision with personal storytelling. His signature: clean lines, sharp tailoring, and an understanding of how fashion moves with and speaks to the individual.
More Than a Designer: A Mentor and Connector
Beyond fashion, Martin served as a mentor and consultant to aspiring designers and youth leaders. His work with FCCLA and BSI-Greensboro positioned him not only as a creator but as an enabler of others’ success.
Despite living in New York, Martin remained deeply engaged with communities across state lines. He regularly contributed to BSI-Greensboro events and was a fixture at cross-regional youth development initiatives. Former students and collaborators describe him as a “quiet powerhouse”—always offering feedback, referrals, or words of encouragement.
“Even when he couldn’t be there in person, Lendrell was present,” said a BSI team member. “He showed up for us—through strategy calls, DMs, virtual critiques—because he believed in investing in young people.”
An Advocate at the Jaffe Awards and Beyond
Martin’s passion for youth mentorship was evident in both formal and informal settings. One memorable encounter at the Jaffe Awards in New York sparked a lasting friendship with fellow advocates: “We were seated at the same table. Instant friends,” one peer recalled. “His spirit, curiosity, and professionalism made him unforgettable.”
Legacy in Motion
Martin’s impact reached far beyond the studio or runway. Through his design consultations, technical workshops, and industry insights, he helped demystify the fashion industry for newcomers—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. His digital creator work, including garment breakdowns and career advice, remains widely shared.
His legacy is now preserved through his website, the communities he served, and the countless mentees he uplifted.
Memorial and Public Tribute
A memorial service for Lendrell Martin will be held on Wednesday, June 18 at 6:00 p.m. at Woody Home Funeral Services, 163 Oakwood Avenue, Orange, NJ.
Friends, family, students, and colleagues are invited to attend and honor a life lived with purpose, polish, and passion.
Remembering the Man Behind the Craft
Lendrell Martin is survived by family members, a wide circle of colleagues, and generations of mentees across the U.S. His death is a significant loss for both the fashion industry and the advocacy networks he helped build.
A Drexel peer summarized the sentiment echoed by many: “Lendrell wasn’t just stylish—he was substantive. He made you feel seen, heard, and capable. That’s what I’ll miss most.”
As the industry reflects on a life cut short, Martin’s ethos lives on: design with intention, serve with humility, and always uplift others along the way.
