Valentine to host open house in honor of director Bill Martin

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Valentine museum recently announced it will host an open house in February to honor the memory of William" Bill" Martin, who served as director for 32 years.

People can gather at the Valentine on Saturday, Feb. 7 to share memories and spend time celebrating Martin's life and work, according to a message from the Valentine's acting director, Meg Hughes. She said more information about the event will be shared soon.

This comes after 71-year-old Martin was hit and killed by a car while crossing the street in Richmond on Dec. 27, resulting in an outpouring of tribute posts in the hours after his death.

Local residents, leaders and loved ones alike shared memories about Martin's time and impact at the Valentine.

Per Hughes' message, January will also be a quieter month at the Valentine, as they rescheduled several planned events to give people time and space to grieve the loss.

The one event that has remained was a favorite of Martin, according to Hughes, which is the Life, Liberty & Happiness lecture that will take place on Religious Freedom Day, Jan. 16 at the Library of Virginia.

Click here for more information on how to honor Martin and donate to the Valentine. Visit the museum's website for more information on upcoming events.