Marshall, Shirley Totten

Shirley Totten Marshall, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2024, after a courageous ten-year battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Born on December 23, 1947 in Virginia to Charlie and Hazel Totten, Shirley’s life was characterized by her unwavering faith, her joyful spirit, and her boundless capacity for love. She was a resident of Narrows, Virginia, where she shared 57 wonderful years of marriage with her devoted husband, Julian “Sammy” Marshall.

Shirley’s legacy is carried on through her loving family. She was the cherished mother of Tammy Bradley (Wes) of Glen Lynn, VA, Heather “Laney” Gillespie (Kaleb) of Pearisburg, VA, and Kimberly Dalton (Shane) of Pearisburg, VA. Her role as a grandmother was one of her greatest joys, and she filled the lives of her grandchildren, Tristan Gillespie (Tiara), Wyatt Taylor, and Hayden Gillespie, with laughter, wisdom, and affection. Her great-grandson, Thatcher Gillespie, was a delightful addition to her family tapestry. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Hazel Totten, her beloved son, Scott Allen Marshall, her brother, RD Totten, and her brother-in-law, Glen Marshall.

Professionally, Shirley was a respected Avon Beauty Consultant for over three decades, helping countless individuals feel confident and beautiful. Her commitment to her community was evident through her involvement with Riverview Baptist Church, where she served as an AWANA Club Leader for over 30 years. Through this role, she touched the lives of many children with her warmth and guidance.

Shirley was the epitome of a loving and fun mother, and she became the best friend to all three of her daughters. As a grandmother, she was the best any boy could ask for, always ready with a story, a game, or a listening ear. Her bright blue twinkling eyes and a smile that could light up any room will be profoundly missed by those who knew her.

Animals held a special place in Shirley’s heart, and she often showed affection for all creatures, even the creepy-crawly kind. Her love for nature was evident in her appreciation for flowers, which was a testament to her love for the beauty of the earth.

Shirley was one of the most genuine and sweetest humans ever to grace this world. Her life was a testament to service, always putting God first in everything she did and leading by example. Acts of compassion came effortlessly to her, and she exemplified what it means to live a life well-lived.

Those who were fortunate enough to know Shirley would describe her as loving, kind, and faith-filled. She had a profound impact on everyone she encountered, and her influence will be felt for generations to come. Her unwavering love and the values she instilled in her family will continue to guide them as they navigate the world without her physical presence.

In her final years, as Shirley faced the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease, she did so with the grace and dignity that characterized her entire life. Her strength in the face of adversity was a final lesson in resilience and faith for everyone around her. Shirley’s spirit, a composite of all the love and joy she shared, will continue to live on through her family, her friends, and the many lives she touched.

The family will receive friends in a time of visitation on Sunday, February 25, 2024 from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM in the Kendall Funeral Home Chapel. A funeral service will be conducted on Sunday, February 25, 2024 at 3:00 PM in the Kendall Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Shahn Wilburn officiating. Services will conclude in Fairview Cemetery where she will be laid to rest. While flowers are appreciated by the family, contributions may also be made in Shirley’s honor with the Alzheimers Association as we all hope for a cure or with Giles County Animal Shelter. A guestbook is available to send condolences to the family by visiting www.kendallfuneralhome.com. The staff of Kendall Funeral Home are honored to serve the Marshall family.