ATLANTA — Former Atlanta City Councilman C.T. Martin passed away early Saturday morning. Martin’s legacy, community service and accomplishments in and for the city of Atlanta will live on for generations.

Friends tell Channel 2 Action News that Martin passed away early Saturday morning at his home, surrounded by family.

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Martin’s legacy includes having the city rename the former Adamsville Recreation Center as the C.T. Martin Natatorium and Recreation Center.

Martin was credited with getting the center built in place of what was considered a drug-infested apartment complex where the center now stands.

One of the longest serving council members in city history, Martin was first elected to represent the city’s District 10 in 1990. He served the district for 27-years. Many credit him with mentoring young people throughout the community, including current Councilwoman Andrea Boone who succeeded him.

“C.T. Martin was a mentor,” Boone said. “He was a friend. He was like a father to me. I walked hand in hand with him for 30 years of my life. He stood firm in his beliefs and acted passionately on his convictions. Words can’t express the mark he’s made on me, my career, and my life. I’m grateful that God allowed me the opportunity to experience his greatness. I will never forget him.”

Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms issued a statement early Saturday afternoon on Martin’s passing:

“Councilmember C.T. Martin was a mentor and a friend. He was my seat mate for eight years on City Council and his lessons of leadership remain with me today,” said Mayor Bottoms. “He was a fierce voice for the voiceless and above all else, placed the needs of our communities first. While his physical presence will be missed, his legacy of activism and fight for equity will impact our city for generations to come.”

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City leaders credit Martin with helping create the Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Merchants Association, banding together area business to work with each other for the betterment of all.

Early in his activist career, Martin served on Atlanta’s Missing and Murdered Children Task force. Once appointed to his council role, he chaired various committee’s including human resources, public safety and transportation.

An Atlanta native, Martin graduated from Booker T. Washington High School. He graduated from Shaw University, later earning a Masters of Science degree from then Atlanta University.

Martin leaves behind four adult children and five grandchildren.

Memorial and funeral services have not been announced at this time.

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