/fit-in/200x300/filters:fill(white)/prod/1083/555403/4xIRaloHorwZwMmoB.Martin.jpg)
Obituary For Bristol Martin
Mr. Bristol Martin, Jr., 82, a native of Havelock, North Carolina peacefully passed away Sunday, September 20, 2026.
His Wake Service: Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. at Jeffress Funeral Home, 2000 North Main Street, South Boston, VA 24592.
CELEBRATION OF LIFE Funeral Service: 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at Halifax County Middle School, 1011 Middle School Circle, South Boston, VA 24592.
He was born July 28, 1944, in Havelock, North Carolina, to Bristol Martin, Sr. and Queenie Carter Martin who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his devoted wife of 52 years, Lauretta Martin.
Mr. Martin dedicated 34 years of faithful service to the Halifax County Public School System, where he served as a Physical Education Teacher, Driver's Education Instructor, and Championship Track Coach. Most notably, he served as Principal of the Halifax County Junior High/Middle School for twenty-three years, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students, families, and colleagues.
Beyond the classroom, Mr. Martin was a proud 1966 graduate of North Carolina A&T State University. He was an accomplished College Football Official, officiating for more than 30 years at the highest levels of the sport. His distinguished career on the field included the Peach Bowl, Citrus Bowl, NCAA Division III National Championship game, and many other bowl games.
Mr. Martin was inducted into the CIAA Hall of Fame in 2009 for his contributions as an official. He was also an avid golfer who cherished his time on the course with family and friends.
He is survived by his two sons, Bristol Martin, III of South Boston, VA, and Patrick Martin, Sr. (Kelly) of Charlotte, NC; three grandsons, Craig Martin, Patrick Martin, Jr., and Grant Bennett; three sisters, Yvonne Simmons of Richmond, VA, Dolly Hall of Havelock, NC, and Aggie James of Mooresville, NC; and one brother, I. Jarvis Martin (Norma) of Durham, NC and a host of nieces and nephews.
MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be directed to the Bristol and Queenie Martin Scholarship Fund. Donations may be mailed to Patrick Martin, 401 North Church Street, Unit 604, Charlotte, NC 28202. Donations can also be made using Zelle: jonjames50@gmail.com. All donations are tax deductible.
A Life of Leadership, Service, and Lasting Impact.
Photos & Video
Condolences & Tributes
Add A Condolence
Deepest condolences to the Martin family from the family of Isaac Bell. My father knew your father and considered him a friend. We pray for your family, but we know that he is resting in the arms of Jesus. For to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.
I worked with Mr. Martin for many years in Halifax County. He was always an advocate for the best opportunities for students. My sincere condolences to his family. Ann Conner
/religious/dove.jpg)
I have nothing but good to say about Mr. Martin. While some found him to be mean and out to get everybody. I saw the opposite. He was so encouraging! I'm so sorry for his profound void in this world. I solemnly can say that the world was a better place because of him. To go behind him in life, would take so big shoes to fill! Love always and forever! Rest Easy!!
Prayers and condolences to the Martin family. Me. Martin was a very nice and sweet person and I am glad I had a chance to know him in my school years.
Thank you, Mr. Martin, for being a kind man and our superb Halifax County Junior High School principal. ๐๐งก You and Mrs. Martin have reunited. โฅ๏ธ Rest well, Mr. Martin! ๐๏ธ
/religious/cross-bible.jpg)
I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the Martin family. Patrick and I are lifelong friends beginning in 8th grade and the Martin family always treated me with respect, kindness and family love. I will continue to lift the Martin family in prayer and encourage all to trust in the healing power of Christ during this challenging hour. May God richly bless and comfort you.
My condolences to the family I remember him being strong presence in school but still very approachable and always had the students best interest at heart he will be missed
My condolences to your family. Praying strength for your family. Doll so sorry for your loss ๐๐ฝ๐๐ฝ๐๐ฝ๐๐ฝ๐ฅฐ๐ฅฐ
Coach Martin was a strong role model and mentor for me in high school. I had lunch with him often when I visited South Boston. Frank Ridgway and I were in town for our 50th class reunion and had plans to have lunch with him but found out later he had been hospitalized. He definitely was on our minds on the day he passed. My prayers are with his lovely family. Peace be with you. Macon Sizemore
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.