Marshall Jones

      When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind. First thoughts are of a no-nonsense, tough-minded, dedicated and disciplined person. This description accurately fits Marshall Jones who was indeed a born manager. He will be remembered as being highly organized, practical and realistic. He was a person who always carried a strong sense of duty with him throughout his life. Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Marshall was an individual who clearly communicated to those around him just who he was and what he was all about. Everyone acquainted with Marshall knew him as a well-respected man who was a stable force in his community.

      Marshall was born on February 23, 1973 at St. Francis Medical Center in Lywood, California. His parents were David and Joy Jones. Marshall was raised in South Gate, California. Even as a youngster, Marshall learned to be objective and decisive. Marshall was raised with three siblings. He had two brothers, Allan and Scott, and one sister, Tamara. Marshall had an inborn appreciation for the order in the family, allowing for the oldest members to be the most respected and to take on the most responsibility. For Marshall, this was a natural order of life, one he gladly embraced.

      Marshall's matter-of-fact attitude about most things was developed during his childhood. As a young boy, Marshall enjoyed being part of teams, and organizations and groups of other kids who shared similar interests. Marshall took part in playing baseball and football. In his spare time he liked all kinds of sports and outdoor activities. He graduated from Long Beach Jordan High School in 1991. He enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers. The teachers he enjoyed learning from the most were Miss Price and Miss Linda.

      Marshall was sociable and approachable. Because he was always so straightforward in how he approached relationships, friends and family knew that what they saw was always what they got. He enjoyed the camaraderie of being with a group of friends. When Marshall was a member of a group, his interaction worked to keep the others grounded. He wasn't afraid to confront his friends and, when necessary, he challenged them to stick to the task at hand. Those close to Marshall came to expect his high standards of performance. While growing up, some of his best friends were the neighborhood kids including the Nauta and Tobas families. Later in life, he became friends with Ronald Bennett and Milton Madson.

      Marshall was ever watchful of his children. He worried about them and was deeply concerned for their development as they grew up. He maintained a firm hand in their upbringing. Marshall would give his stamp of approval to their requests, as long as he could see how they might benefit. He also had the ability to enforce the rules as needed to ensure that his children were properly raised. Marshall was blessed with two children, a daughter, Kierra Watson, and a son, Marshall Edwin Jones Jr.

      Being a hard worker who praised efficiency, Marshall was always striving to make improvements where they were necessary. He was able to analyze situations and problems, keeping everything and everyone on track. An excellent project supervisor, Marshall was a person who could quickly make decisions based on the information available. He worked cooperatively and expected the same from his colleagues. In both his personal and professional environments, Marshall upheld his standards. His primary occupation was as a welder. He was employed for 7 years by the Boiler Makers Union. Marshall was a team player who certainly lived out the motto of “give me a job, and I will get it done.”

      Marshall approached his leisure time in the same manner that he approached his life. A person who enjoyed being neat and orderly and one who understood the nature of things, he appreciated the hours he was able to devote to his various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were playing and watching football, working on his car, hanging out with friends, and above all spending time with his children. Marshall was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

      Playing by the rules was a natural thing for Marshall to do in life and that carried over to his enjoyment of sports. In high school, Marshall played football and baseball. He also was something of a sports fan and enjoyed watching his favorite events whenever he got the opportunity. Tops on his list were football and baseball.

      When it came time to travel or take a vacation, Marshall used his scheduling expertise to make sure everyone and everything was ready to go. Favorite vacations included Hawaii and Las Vegas.

      Marshall was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of Marshall's favorites was Peanut, a Pit Bull. Peanut was the family pet for 8 years. His family was rounded out by his other Pit Bull, Leia.

      Marshall passed away on April 1, 2009 in Long Beach, California. Marshall's life was tragically cut short by an automobile accident. He is survived by mother, Joy, father, David (Betty), children, Kierra and Marshall Jr., brothers Allan and Scott, and sister Tamara. Services were held at Whites Funeral Home, April 8, 2009 at 11:30 AM.

      All who knew him would agree that Marshall was a pillar of the community. He lived his life with his feet firmly on the ground. He had a strong work ethic, was pragmatic in his thoughts and acts, and constantly sought the means for self-improvement. He was willing to share his ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more in their lives. Marshall Jones did his best to ensure that his family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and everyone whose life he touched was given the chance to become a better person.