VisitBluffton

05/27/2026

With deep respect and heartfelt remembrance, we share the passing of Mr. Jacob Joseph Martin, 97, of Bluffton, South Carolina, who entered eternal rest on Sunday, May 24, 2026.

Born on August 22, 1928, to the late John and Rena Martin, Mr. Martin lived a life marked by courage, service, and unwavering dedication to justice and community.

A proud graduate of Allen University, he was part of the early civil rights movement in higher education when he challenged segregation at the University of South Carolina School of Law in 1950.

He went on to serve his community and country through a distinguished 25-year career with the Detroit Police Department, where he made history as the first African American Commander of the 16th Precinct. He also founded the Detroit Police Department Police Athletic League (PAL), leaving a lasting legacy of mentorship and youth engagement.

A devoted member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated for 79 years, Mr. Martin embodied the fraternity’s highest ideals of leadership, scholarship, and service.

After returning home to Bluffton, he continued a lifetime of service as an educator, mentor, municipal court judge, school administrator, and faithful member of Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church. He also played a meaningful role in supporting the founding of Bluffton Self Help.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ida Mae Martin, and son, Richard I. Martin.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children Richard (Lois), Constance (Quenten), and Crawford; grandchildren Latisha, Mikesha (Courtney), Christopher (Tricia), Jennifer (Cory), Candyce (Tim), and Jordan; great-grandchildren; his siblings; and a host of extended family and friends who will carry forward his legacy.

Services
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated Omega Services
Saturday, May 30, 2026 – 1:30 PM
Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church
25 Boundary Street, Bluffton, SC 29910

Funeral Service
Saturday, May 30, 2026 – 2:00 PM
Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church
Livestream available via Stiney’s Funeral Home page:
https://www.facebook.com/Stineys

Interment
Buck Island Cemetery
1154 May River Road, Bluffton, SC 29910

Repast
Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church
Professional Services Entrusted To:
Stiney’s Funeral Home, Hardeeville, SC

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:
Bluffton Community Kitchen
PO Box 993, Bluffton, SC 29910
www.blufftoncommunitykitchen.org

05/14/2026

https://www.oldeenglishdistrict.com/things-to-do/history-buffs/?utm_source=meta&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=Madden-meta-leisure-prospecting&utm_content=pr_history&fbclid=IwZnRzaARy_TdleHRuA2FlbQEwAGFkaWQAAAZA2jzj7XNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR61pUGjrfIDnG-XkBh41AJDovUVeOvxTeleNAN20Cc-Dhq18hkIQzoC2ydYdA_aem_WL9dFBkbmD0dxVK77aGfDA

Explore Revolutionary War sites, historic homes, museums, and landmarks across the Olde English District for an unforgettable history‑focused getaway.

04/30/2026

May is Preservation Month, and we’re opening our doors (and rolling out our carts) to celebrate the stories that built Bluffton 🤍

For the month of May, we’re offering FREE tours at the Heyward House:

Mondays – Walking Tours
• 9:00 AM
• 11:00 AM
Limited to 10 guests per tour

Fridays – Golf Cart Tours
• 9:00 AM
• 11:00 AM

First come, first served—but if you want to lock in your spot, give us a call at 843-757-6293.

Come early, bring a friend, and step into Bluffton’s story right where it happened.

Historic Bluffton Foundation — Preserving Bluffton’s History for Future Generations.

04/25/2026

It takes a village to keep Bluffton’s story alive—and we’re calling on ours. 🌿

The Historic Bluffton Foundation and Heyward House are looking for volunteers and docents to help bring history to life. From leading tours to supporting educational programs and community events, there’s a place for you here.

Whether you’re a student needing service hours, a lifelong local, or simply someone who loves this town, your time and talents make a real impact.

As we look ahead to America’s 250th, there’s never been more momentum behind preservation. Let’s keep it going—together.

✨ Ages 16+ welcome
✨ Volunteer hours available for students
✨ Flexible opportunities

📧 [email protected] | 📞 843-757-6293

04/16/2026

Step back in time with us… it’s what we do best. 🇺🇸

Join the Historic Bluffton Foundation for a special afternoon with Benjamin Franklin, portrayed by renowned living history interpreter Greg Robin Smith, at the Heyward House Museum.

This free, family-friendly event is designed especially for children to talk, ask questions, and engage directly with a Founding Father. History comes to life as kids interact with Benjamin Franklin in a fun and welcoming setting.

Cool off with “Pops with Ben” 🍧, featuring palmettopops on site selling their signature popsicles, and enjoy a flag giveaway for children courtesy of the Heritage Library Foundation .

📸 Don’t miss “A Portrait with a Founding Father” — a special photo opportunity under the oaks.

Event Details:
June 29, 2026
4:30 PM
Heyward House Museum, Bluffton
Free & open to the public
RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1987538369767?aff=oddtdtcreator

Bring your curiosity, bring your questions, and bring the kids for an afternoon of living history in Bluffton.

This is done in partnership with the southcarolina250 .

03/30/2026

03/27/2026

The Lyceum. Although originally constructed as a machine shop, as its name suggests, this building became a recreational place for Marines and Sailors to attend lectures, watch movies, play sports, and attend dances.

SATURDAY, 28 MARCH 2026: Join us on the Iron Mike Bike Tour where you can learn more about Parris Island's historic district and other points of interest! This event is open to Tri-Command and the public from 9 AM – 2 PM. 🚴

Please visit https://www.mcrdpi.marines.mil/Visitors/Base-Access/ for Base Access information. Personal bicycles and helmets are required.

03/17/2026

On Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island

02/27/2026