Levi Martin Sr.

Known as “Caesar” to many in the Huntington community, Levi Martin Sr. was born in a small country town in Dawkins, South Carolina. His family moved to Huntington in the late 1930s.

As a child, Martin was very inquisitive, friendly and outgoing.  He attended Barnett Elementary School and Douglass High School, where he played bass drum in the high school marching band and participated in several school activities.

Martin became an amateur boxer after high school before going into the Armed Forces. After returning to Huntington, he was part of a singing group called “The Zeroes” and opened “Martin’s Continental Barber Shop.”

Martin’s shop was a popular place where many throughout the neighborhood and Tri-State came for a haircut, great conversation and mentorship. Martin was easy to talk to and loved helping those in need. Whether it was taking a picture of a friend or family member, providing transportation, or giving advice or information, he was there.

Martin was a member, trustee and church van driver for First Baptist Church. He was involved in coordinating events for the Douglass High School reunions, was coordinator of a community bowling league (where he bowled a perfect 300 twice) and was treasurer of the Revelers Club.

He loved to take pictures and shared many of those photos with community members.