By JIM BUTLER

The late Jonathan Martin was a familiar sight at Alexandria’s Compton Park, a regular walker and persistent litter fighter.

Now his name will be associated with the park off Herman Lane adjacent to Nachman Elementary as long as there is a park.

Formally opened and dedicated last week, the Jonathan E. Martin Memorial Grove passed the kid test over the weekend, hosting dozens of youngsters out with families for a breezy Spring day Saturday or Sunday.

In addition to the latest in playground facility, other contributions in the package include improvements to the walking trail, placement of limestone benches and the addition of several cypress trees.

Trees, of course, are the base product for what has become RoyOMartin, the company Johnathan had led as chairman, CEO and president. He passed in 2019 at age 70.

“Johnny loved to visit Compton Park and we can’t think of a better way to honor his life,” said Roy O. Martin III at the dedication.