Florence R. Marshall

Florence R. Marshall, age 95, went home to be with her Lord on January 20, 2026. Born on June 11, 1930, in Moultrie, Georgia, Florence was the beloved daughter of the late William Frederick and Elizabeth Juanita Rutland. Her life was a beautiful testimony of faith, love, creativity, and generosity.

A devoted follower of Jesus, Florence lived her faith daily—through kindness, service, and an open heart. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen and loved, and over the years she “adopted” many as her own family. Once you were welcomed into Florence’s life, you were there for good.

Florence moved to Eustis, Florida, in 1987 from Wilmington, Illinois, where she quickly became an integral part of the community. An artist at heart and an avid gardener, she found great joy working with nature. These passions blossomed into a rewarding career as a floral designer, where she not only created beautiful arrangements but also mentored and encouraged others, always eager to teach, share, and inspire.

Her love for gardening extended beyond her work and into her own flourishing gardens. She was a proud member of the Lakes & Hills Garden Club of Mount Dora and found deep fulfillment in nurturing beauty from the soil. Florence was also an active and cherished member of Bay Street Baptist Church in Eustis, where she formed lifelong friendships and faithfully served her church family.

Known as one of the last true Southern belles, Florence was a gifted storyteller with a sharp memory and a love for sharing her adventures and family history. Whether recounting moments from her past or simply enjoying conversation, she had a way of captivating everyone around her.

Florence is survived by her son, William A. “Sonny” Davis of Altoona, Florida; her daughters, Leslie A. Harris of Eustis, Florida, and Florence M. Jackson of Kankakee, Illinois; and her brother, Robert Rutland of Cumming, Georgia. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, each of whom was deeply loved and endlessly cherished.

A memorial service celebrating Florence’s life will be held at Bay Street Baptist Church in Eustis on February 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Florence R. Marshall will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her creative spirit, her love of nature, and the countless lives she touched along the way. Her legacy of love, beauty, and grace will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew her.

Floral gifts can be ordered from Ariel’s Flowers and Gifts. In lieu of flowers, donations can also be made to Bay Street Baptist Church or Lakes and Hills Garden Club