DALLAS, Texas — Sue Martin, the longtime founder and owner of ASM Auto Upholstery, has reportedly died following a battle with cancer. Known affectionately to customers, television audiences, and friends as “Dragon Lady Sue,” Martin reportedly passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by family members.

News of her passing was shared in a family announcement, according to a report published October 31, 2026. Her death marks the reported loss of a businesswoman whose determination, distinctive personality, and craftsmanship earned her recognition well beyond the Dallas automotive community.

Remembering Sue Martin, “Dragon Lady Sue”

Sue Martin was known for her strong personality, practical skills, and dedication to her work. Through ASM Auto Upholstery, she developed a reputation for restoring and customizing vehicle interiors while building lasting relationships with customers.

Her nickname, “Dragon Lady Sue,” became familiar to people who followed her work and television appearances. Those who knew her through the business also remembered a woman whose direct manner and sense of humor were part of her distinctive personality.

According to the family tribute reported after her passing, Martin was also a cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her family remembered her as someone who valued the people around her and enjoyed bringing happiness to others.

From Taiwan to Building a Business in Dallas

Martin was born in Taiwan and moved to the United States in 1984 with her husband and children, according to a 2018 interview published by Voyage Dallas.

Her journey into automotive upholstery began around 1990, when she and a friend reupholstered her husband’s 1968 Ford Gran Torino in their garage. That experience led to an opportunity to purchase a struggling upholstery business in Dallas.

She acquired the business for approximately $4,500 and began developing what became ASM Auto Upholstery. Starting in a small garage, Martin gradually expanded the operation through years of demanding work and a commitment to dependable service.

The company eventually grew into a substantially larger facility, serving customers with automotive, marine, aircraft, furniture, and restoration upholstery needs.

Television Career and “Fast N’ Loud”

Martin became familiar to a wider audience through appearances on automotive television programming, particularly Discovery Channel’s Fast N’ Loud and Misfit Garage.

Her upholstery expertise brought her into contact with restoration projects involving classic and custom vehicles. Her television appearances helped introduce her work and personality to viewers beyond the Dallas–Fort Worth area.

Her professional contribution was not limited to television. She continued to build her business and develop relationships with customers who valued her experience and craftsmanship.

Family, Tributes, and Loved Ones

According to the family announcement described in the October 31 report, Martin was surrounded by loved ones when she passed away.

Her family expressed gratitude to the customers, friends, and fans who supported her throughout her life. They also asked for privacy and understanding as they mourn.

The tribute described a woman whose influence extended beyond her professional achievements. Her family relationships and the memories she created with those closest to her formed an important part of her life.

Cause of Death

The report announcing Martin’s death stated that she had been battling cancer. However, the specific type of cancer, the duration of her illness, and further medical details have not been established in the information reviewed.

Her reported peaceful passing at home with family members present was also attributed to the family announcement.

Funeral Arrangements and Memorial Information

Confirmed details about Sue Martin’s funeral, visitation, or celebration of life have not been provided in the report reviewed.

Her family may share information about memorial arrangements through an authorized announcement or ASM Auto Upholstery’s official communication channels. Those wishing to pay their respects should wait for confirmed details and respect the family’s request for privacy.

Sue Martin’s Lasting Legacy

Sue Martin’s story reflects years of persistence, entrepreneurship, and dedication to a skilled trade. From beginning her upholstery work in a garage to establishing ASM Auto Upholstery as a recognised Dallas business, she built a professional legacy through determination and hands-on craftsmanship.

Her television appearances introduced her to a wider audience, while her work and relationships with customers helped establish her reputation in the automotive restoration community.

For those who knew her as “Dragon Lady Sue,” her legacy will remain connected to the business she built, the work she loved, and the family, friends, customers, and fans whose lives she touched.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only. Not all information on this website is accurate, complete, or independently verified. Details about Sue Martin’s reported death are based on published reporting attributing the announcement to her family and business. Her age, specific medical details, and funeral arrangements should be confirmed through authorized family or business announcements.