Florence, South Carolina, October 20, 2025
News Summary
The golf community mourns the loss of Bruce Martin, a legendary plant pathologist who left an indelible mark on turf management. Having dedicated over 30 years to advancing golf course agronomy, his influence spanned internationally, shaping practices from South Carolina to Australia. Recognized for numerous awards, he was a mentor and educator, committed to fostering future talent in the industry. Bruce’s legacy will forever be remembered as the community reflects on his significant contributions.
Florence, South Carolina – Farewell to a Green Industry Giant
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bruce Martin, a celebrated plant pathologist who dedicated over 30 years to the advancement of golf course agronomy. He left us on October 16, at the age of 71, after a life filled with contributions that shaped the way we think about turf management.
A Legacy Built on Knowledge
Bruce began his career as a plant pathologist in Connecticut before embarking on an impactful journey at the Pee Dee Research & Education Center in Florence, South Carolina, in 1987. His wife, Dr. Cynthia Green, secured a position at Pee Dee, which prompted this crucial relocation. Initially, his research focused on tobacco and field crops, but the shift towards turfgrass research came after he successfully obtained state research grants. Thanks to his efforts, a turfgrass diagnostics lab was also established at Horry Georgetown Technical College, marking a significant milestone in the understanding of turf health.
The Face of Turf Management
Throughout his career, Bruce became an indispensable resource for golf course superintendents, not just in South Carolina but across the Carolinas and even beyond. His reputation transcended borders, as he contributed to turf management practices internationally, including in Australia, Argentina, Brazil, England, and Spain. His groundbreaking work in 2001 alongside Dr. Larry Stowell in diagnosing and naming rapid blight (Labyrinthula terrestris), a turf disease linked to high-salt irrigation water, stands as a testament to his dedication and expertise.
Honors and Recognition
Bruce Martin’s accolades reflect his enduring impact on the field. He was inducted into the Myrtle Beach Golf Hall of Fame just a month before his passing, a fitting tribute for a man regarded as an architect of Myrtle Beach golf’s success. His contributions didn’t go unnoticed throughout his career, earning him several prestigious awards, including the 2014 Col. John Morley Award for contributions to golf course superintendent advancement and the Outstanding Plant Pathologist Award from the American Phytopathological Society in 2005.
Mentor, Educator, and Advocate
Even after retiring from Clemson in June 2018, Bruce remained involved in the turf management community, continuing to share his knowledge and support industry professionals and students. He was genuinely passionate about mentorship, emphasizing the importance of a solid agronomic background, strong communication skills, and humility for success in the field of turf management. His influence shaped the next generation of superintendents.
A Lasting Impact
Born in Conway, Arkansas, in 1952, Bruce graduated with a biology degree from Hendrix College in 1976. He then pursued his master’s and doctorate in plant pathology at the University of Arkansas. Throughout his esteemed career, he garnered respect not only for his scientific knowledge but also for his approachable personality, making him a beloved figure in the agricultural community.
As the community reflects on Bruce Martin’s remarkable contributions, it is clear that he has left an indelible mark on turf management and education. His passion for the field and unwavering commitment to the growth and success of others will be sorely missed but never forgotten. Rest in peace, Bruce Martin, and thank you for your remarkable contributions to the world of plant pathology and agronomy.
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Additional Resources
- Golf Course Industry: Bruce Martin Obituary
- TurfNet: Martin Remembered for Unyielding Service
- On The Green Magazine: Myrtle Beach Golf Hall of Fame Class
- Golf Course Industry: Myrtle Beach Golf Hall of Fame Duo
- Wikipedia: Plant Pathology
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Turfgrass
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
