Jackson Free Press

Calvin Stodghill bought Martin's Lounge when its longtime patriarch and namesake, Martin Lassiter, got too sick to run the lounge.

Despite the ownership change, the bar continued to serve what Stodghill considered a melting pot of local blue- and white-collar professionals in the Capital City. The popular late night offerings at Martin's, located at 214 S. State St., in Jackson include a variety of live music, karaoke and open mic nights.

Of the bar's history, Stodghill wrote on the lounge's website: "What started out over 50 years ago on State Street as a small breakfast/lunch grill has really come into its own, and is certainly a landmark on the food/entertainment scene in Jackson. The story could end there, but it doesn't."

Stodghill passed away on Sunday, Aug. 19, and the restaurant wants to assure patrons that Martin's story will continue. A celebration of Stodghill's legacy will take place Sat., Aug. 25, at 5 p.m.