Former Alton High Redbirds Football Coach Jack Martin, Passes Away After Battling With Heart Disease
Scarlett Howard
Published May 15, 2026
Former Alton High Redbirds Football Coach Jack Martin, Passes Away After Battling With Heart Disease
From the football field to the principal’s office, Martin led with integrity and compassion.
July 21, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on July 21, 2026
Jack Martin’s death reminds the Alton community of his lifelong dedication to education and sports.
The Alton community is mourning the passing of Jack Martin, a beloved educator, coach, and mentor who left a lasting impact on countless lives throughout his career.
Jack Martin died after a battle with heart disease, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, compassion, and dedication to the students and athletes he served.
Jack Martin’s in education and athletics spanned decades and touched many corners of the Alton school system.
He served as the head football coach for the Alton High Redbirds from 1982 to 1985.
Under his leadership, the 1985 Redbirds finished their season with an impressive 6-3 record, a testament to his skills not just as a coach, but as a motivator and leader of young men.
Beyond the football field, Martin dedicated himself to the academic side of education.
He served as Principal of JB Johnson when his niece was in preschool there and later as Assistant Principal at Alton High School.
He returned once again to JB Johnson, finishing his career where it had begun, retiring after serving another term as principal.
His passion for education was evident in the way he consistently prioritized the development and well-being of his students.
Before his career in education, Martin attended college on a football scholarship and was even drafted into the NFL before an untimely injury cut short his athletic ambitions.
Still, he carried the same drive and discipline into his professional life, earning the nickname “6 Pack Jack” among those who admired his strength and determination.
The tributes following Martin’s death reflect the profound impact he had on those who knew him.
Former students, athletes, and colleagues remembered him not only as a great coach and principal but as someone who took the time to guide, encourage, and mentor.
“He always was fair and gave me advice, encouragement, and fair discipline,” one former student recalled.
“Thanks, Mr. Martin, for being there when I was young. I understand what you meant now that I’m a grown man myself.”
Others echoed these sentiments, remembering Martin as a man who truly cared for his students, offering patience and support rather than judgment.
Colleagues admired his leadership and dedication to his work, and friends reflected fondly on their shared memories of him as a fraternity brother, a teammate, and a mentor.
Throughout his life, Jack Martin earned the admiration of his peers and the gratitude of those he helped shape.
His passing leaves a void in the Alton community, but his influence will continue to be felt in the lives of those he coached, taught, and mentored.
Jack Martin is remembered not only for his achievements but for his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to helping others succeed.
His legacy as an educator, coach, and friend lives on in the many hearts he touched.
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