William H. Marsh

William H. (Bill) Marsh, age 87, went to be with the Lord on Monday, September 23, 2013 as he was tending to his farm on a beautiful, blue sky day.

He was born on December 30, 1925 in the Ross Campground community of Hawkins County. He was the 6th of 9 children born to the late D.T. and Nannie S. Marsh. He was taught at an early age to love the Lord, serve others, and work hard, all values that he honored his entire life and made certain to pass along to his family.

He was a graduate of Church Hill High School and joined the Navy in 1943. As a World War II veteran, he was stationed in Pearl Harbor. In the Navy, he began electrical training, which led to the start of his lengthy professional career as a licensed electrical contractor and licensed residential builder. He valued civic and community organizations and was a member of the Lynn Garden Optimist Club, Downtown Rotary, Masonic Lodge, VFW, American Legion, Sullivan County Cattlemen's Association, Tennessee Cattlemen's Association, and various Republican organizations. He was a member of Lynn Garden Baptist church for over 50 years and regularly attended and enjoyed his Sunday school class.

As an avid farmer, at one time he owned over 700 acres of land in Tennessee and Virginia. He loved raising calves and working on various farm projects. Even at 87 years old, it was routine to see him driving his truck throughout the farm, checking fences, water, and cows. On occasion, he surveyed the pastures on an ATV with his granddaughters and daughter. His love for the farm fueled his desire to learn more about his trade, continually educating himself and others on his passion. He could be found at his farm daily, tending to his cattle and other farm business, most often accompanied by his daughter and best friend, Mary Ann McCall.

His deep love for his family was always evident as he responded to our every need. He was genuine, dependable, and always maintained an optimistic outlook on life. Known for his calm, loving demeanor, he was constantly willing to pass along advice and life lessons. He was always very up-to-date with current events, news, and politics and enjoyed discussion. He had a special love for his two granddaughters, Melissa and Lilly McCall. He enjoyed everything from learning about their daily activities to celebrating with them in their greatest accomplishments. He always motivated and encouraged them to do their best in all endeavors, and was so proud to see them set and attain their goals. He enjoyed life and recognized he was blessed by many happy and healthy years. He was a treasured friend to many, and will be irreplaceable and unforgettable.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 47 years, Lillian Hayes Marsh; four brothers, Dewey Marsh, Robert Marsh, Tom Marsh, and John Marsh; and three sisters, Beatrice Haun, Edith Harris, and Betty Jean Marsh.

He is survived by his daughter, Mary Ann McCall and husband Ed of Kingsport; two granddaughters who he cherished, Melissa McCall and husband Josh Jessee of Kingsport, and Lilly McCall of Kingsport; sister, Gladys M. Brooks and husband Robert of Kingsport; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will be held Thursday, September 26, 2013 from 12:00pm until 2:00pm at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home in Kingsport. Funeral services will follow at 2:00pm, officiated by Dr. Michael Wrye. A military graveside service will proceed immediately after the funeral at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Tom Gilbert, Josh Jessee, Harold Kidd, Billy Linkous, Larry Lyon, Gerald Owens, Kay Pierson, and Bill Thurman. Members of the Crusaders Sunday School class at Lynn Garden Baptist Church, Tom Ashworth, and Robert Brooks will serve as honorary pallbearers.

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