Abbie Lou Hampton Martin ascended into her earthly orbit on February 12, 1916 in DeKalb, Mississippi. She was the third gift from God to her loving parents Ezra and Odie (Jack) Hampton. Both parents preceded her in death along with her devoted sister Gloria Hampton Wynne; her wonderful brothers, Delmar Hampton and Russell Hampton. Adding to those who made their heavenly journey before her was Abbie's granddaughter, Sherri Jo Martin, who she loved dearly and doted much attention on.

Her elementary school education started in Blytheville, Arkansas, then transferring to East St. Louis, Illinois in the 2nd grade where she entered Lincoln School. Abbie returned to Arkansas in the 5th grade and completed her elementary education there. She went on to complete her junior high and highs school education in East St. Louis. Abbie graduated early with honors. She was accepted into the University of Illinois (U of I) Champaign, IL Campus. She was invited into membership with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, Alpha Nu Chapter, where she wasted no time advancing in the organization and holding many offices. In 1940, Abbie completed her college studies receiving her Bachelor's degree in Physical Education from U of I.

After earning her college degree, Abbie returned home to East St. Louis and went to work in School District #189 as a teacher. She later received her Master's degree from the University of Illinois.

While advancing her education and teaching career, Abbie met the love of her life, a soldier, William (Bill) Martin. They were united in holy matrimony and one wonderful son was born, Werner B. Martin. Abbie's teaching career was blossoming; later in Abbie's teaching career, she would be promoted to the Physical Education Supervisor in Dist. #189.

Throughout this time,, Abbie was busy bonding with other Delta women in the Eats St. Louis community. The Sorors decided to charter a chapter in the community. In 1942 these dynamic women formed the Gamma Eta Chapter that would later be re-named East St. Louis Alumnae Chapter. Abbie's dedication to community service was recognized by the great work started by the chapter and expanded under the leadership while serving as Chapter President.

Abbie worked diligently in the community and served on the board of Directors for Comprehensive Mental Health Center of St. Clair County (The Behavior Health Center) for many years. Abbie's volunteer services in the community were extensive: she worked with the Cancer society, formed an AARP chapter, worked with the Soup Bus for St. Vincent DePaul and Cosgrove Kitchen helping to feed the homeless.

Abbie was considered a very benevolent person and contributed her resources and time performing such tasks as Bell Ringing for the Salvation Army, clothing drives for St. Vincent DePaul, Old News Boys curbside collections and many more. She helped in many capacities in the community through her roles as a mental health board member, St. Augustine Church member and DST sorority sister.

Abbie was a faithful member of the Catholic Church. She attended the original St. Augustine Catholic Church. She attended the original St. Augustine Catholic Church at 14th and Broadway. Upon the merger of Catholic churches in East St. Louis, Abbie joined St. Joseph's Catholic Church. When all the Catholic Churches merged, Abbie remained an active member of the newly names Catholic Church St. Augustine of Hippo, where father Carrol Mizicko, OFM is Pastor.

Abbie leaves to keep her light illuminated her devoted son, Werner B. Martin, Sr.; daughter-in-law, Carolyn Martin; grandsons, Werner B. Martin, Jr. (Kimberly), James E. Hill; granddaughter, Crystal H. Thompson; two godsons, Thamous Wooten and Fredrick Carter, Sr.; four great granddaughters, seven great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, church family, and sorority sisters.