VALDOSTA —
Lowndes County Schools honored the man whose name is the home of Vikings football. During Friday’s half-time show, the school system paid tribute to A.B. “Sonny” Martin.
Lowndes’ Martin Stadium is named for him.
Described as a charismatic leader who served the students, teachers, parents and citizens of Lowndes County for more than 30 years, Martin was a teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent.
He began his career in the Lowndes County School System in 1951 as a teacher and coach. He served as principal of Hahira High School before assuming the superintendent’s office in 1960. He served as superintendent for 20 years before retiring in 1980.
As superintendent, Martin successfully led the system through the consolidation and integration of all county schools and the creation and construction of Lowndes High School in 1965.
He was also instrumental in the planning and design of the stadium that bears his name.
Martin died in 1982.
During Friday’s game, he was represented by his son, Alex, daughter-in-law Debbie and their two sons; and Martin’s sister, Vern Griffin, and her family.
A collage consisting of a new plaque with a bust of Martin commemorated his career during the ceremony, along with the original architectural plaque for the stadium, and one that commemorates the stadium renovation.
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