Jacob Joseph Martin

Mr. Jacob Joseph Martin, 97, of Bluffton, South Carolina, Entered into eternal rest on Sunday, May,24,2026.

 Mr.  Martin was born on August 22,1928, to the late John and Rena Martin.

A graduate of Allen University, he became part of the early fight for civil rights In higher education when he challenged segregation at the University of South Carolina School of Law in 1950.

  He later served with distinction in the Detroit Police Department for 25 years, becoming the first African American commander in the 16th Precinct in Detroit, Michigan. He was also the founder of the Detroit Police Department Police Athletic League (PAL). A devoted member Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated for 79 years,  Jacob embodied the fraternity's principles of scholarship, leadership, and service throughout his life.

After returning home to Bluffton, he continued serving his community as an educator, mentor, municipal court judge, school administrator and faithful member of Campbell Chapel AME Church. He was also a key financial supporter in the founding of  Bluffton Self Help.

Mr. Martin was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ida Mae Martin, and his 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 Belize, Nathaniel, Nicholas, Ava, Gabriel, Carter, Gianni, and Junie; his brother, The Honorable Daniel E. Martin Sr.(Ruby); his sister, Reverend Dr. Vivian L. Martin-Jones , and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY INCORPORATED OMEGA SERVICE will take place on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at 1:30pm at Campbell Chapel AME Church, 25 Boundary St. Bluffton, SC 29910.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Bluffton Community Kitchen PO Box 993, Bluffton,  SC 29910.  

www.blufftoncommunitykitchen.org

Services of comfort have been confidently entrusted to Stiney's Funeral Home

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