Betty Joyce Marshall

Betty Joyce Lipsey Marshall, a native of Childersburg and long-time resident of Mobile and Irvington, passed away at home with her loving family in attendance on June 19, 2016, Father’s Day. She was 86 years old. She is preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Robert Jackson Marshall, Sr., and is survived by five children: Linda Marshall Hill (Jackson), Robert J. Marshall, Jr. (Teri Barrett), Elaine Marshall Burgener (Joe), Peggy Marshall Dekle (Tom), and Mary Marshall Dunn (Gary); 11 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren; brother- and sister-in-law Frank Clifton Marshall (Jean), and other family members. Although both she and her future husband attended Woodlawn High School where he graduated in 1945 and she in 1948, that is not where and when their story together started. A life-long journey involving children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren began in 1949 when Joyce made a chance visit to a Birmingham bank where Robert worked as a teller. The couple married on September 1, 1949. Joyce has always been a leader and no cause inspired her more than her family. Her children grew up with a beautiful mother, Sunday school teacher, Boy Scout and Girl Scout leader, room mother, and PTA president, who was such a gifted cook that she could well have opened her own restaurant. Whatever role she assumed, Joyce was a true optimist whose unforgettably gracious smile always lit up a room and the lives of those in it. The epitome of love and selflessness, Joyce was also the most genuine, honest, and caring person imaginable. Joyce knew no strangers and was universally loved and admired. Everyone who has ever talked with her has left the conversation feeling genuinely heard, understood, accepted and aware of a positive side, no matter how challenging the circumstance. Each friend and family member has felt uniquely loved and cared about by a person whose opinion has always mattered very much to them. For honest guidance with a dose of humor, we all have turned to Mrs. Marshall, Joyce, Joy, Betty Joyce, Mama, Mama Joyce or Mammaw, as the case may have been. Joyce was a life-long learner who thrived on learning something new. She had a keen interest in the natural world and went on to become a legendary gardener. Joyce will be remembered as a person of vision, creativity, and warmth who filled our lives with beauty. From her extensive gardens to her one-of-a kind biscuits to her fashion and design sense, Joyce had the rare gift of making every-day events seem magical and ordinary people feel exceptional. The family will receive friends at Elmwood Chapel, 800 Dennison Ave SW, Birmingham on Friday, June 24, 2016 from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. The burial will be private. In lieu of flowers please donate to a charity of choice and carry forward Joyce’s legacy of love.