Deacon James William Marshall

James William Marshall was born on March 26, 1948 in Lexington County, South Carolina to the late James and Mary Boyd Marshall.

He was educated in the public schools of Lexington County and was a graduate of Twin City High School in Batesburg, South Carolina. In addition, he attended Morris College in Sumter, South Carolina and later graduated from Chaminade University of Honolulu.

James joined Friendship Baptist Church in Leesville, South Carolina at an early age and after locating in Columbia, South Carolina, he became affiliated with Bethlehem Baptist Church where he served faithfully in the Deacons Ministry, taught Sunday school and Bible Study on Wednesday at Noon.  He was also a member of the Brotherhood and worked with Teen Spirit.  He was a faithful servant until his untimely death.

He served in the United States Arm Forces and was employed by US Forest Service until he retired.

James dedicated his life to the Lord, his family, loved ones, and community.  He lived a life of service to his fellowman and was loved and admired by many who knew him.

James leaves to cherish his precious memory a loving wife, Ethel Samuel Marshall; two daughters, JaNelle Angelica (Rontae) Kirk and Cathyann Chapman of Columbia, SC; three sons, JaMais A. Marshall  of Charlotte, NC, Nigel B. (Chanta N.) Samuel, and James Edward Samuel of Columbia, SC; one sister, Marion (Freeman) Gary of Aiken, SC; two brothers, Julius Marshall, Andrew E. (Linda) Marshall of Columbia, SC; four grandchildren, JaMeah, Jaedon and Jakira Costen of Columbia and Imani (Ali) Shaheen of Atlanta, GA; three aunts, Nettie Marshall and Josephine Gantt of Queens Village, NY, and Marie Henry of St. Petersburg, FL; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Indeed, James’ hands were an extension of Jesus’ hand as he rendered assistance wherever it was needed.  This laborious, devoted, trusted and honored man has finished his course, Bethlehem Baptist Church has lost a faithful member; the Deacons Ministry, a model deacon; the community a good neighbor, a kind and loving brother, a thoughtful relative and a just man who loved and was loved.

 Service Information