Howard "Howdy" D. Marsh Jr.

Born on October 12th, 1939, in High Point, North Carolina to Howard and Katherine Marsh, Howdy spent his life devoted to family, building lasting relationships, and encouraging others. Howdy's generosity of spirit was most evident in the way he gave of his time and resources to help those around him.

He graduated from UNC Chapel Hill where he made many friends and became a lifelong Tar Heel fan.

Howdy and his late wife Sally met while in college and were married for 56 years.  They are now together again and sitting on the beach in heaven.

Family was the greatest joy of Howdy's life and he was a wonderful father to his and Sally’s three children, Sarah, Anne and Howard. Some of his happiest moments were spent at the beach with those he loved most. An avid outdoorsman, he found peace and happiness in God's creation—whether hunting, fishing, golfing, or simply enjoying a good rocking chair on a screen porch and watching the birds.  Of all his blessings, nothing brought him greater joy and pride than his four grandsons—Joe Roddey,  Baker Roddey, Sam Roddey and Jack Friend. They adored their grandfather, and he delighted in encouraging them and celebrating their accomplishments.

Howdy was active in the Greensboro community and volunteered generously.  He never met a stranger and always seemed to have a positive word of thanks, encouragement, and occasionally friendly advice for everyone. He possessed a wonderful sense of humor and a gift for making people feel at ease and important.

Howdy is survived by his children Sarah Roddey (Joe Roddey), Anne Marsh (Jody Morphis), and Howard Marsh III; his beloved grandsons, Joe Roddey, Baker Roddey, Sam Roddey and Jack Friend; his siblings, Kitty Montgomery and Jane Marsh; along with many nieces, nephews and dear friends.  He was preceded by siblings Ginger Marsh and Jack Marsh.  

There will be a memorial service on Thursday, August 6, 2026 at 3:00 pm at First Presbyterian Church. A reception will follow the service at Greensboro Country Club.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to the NC Wildlife Federation, ncwf.org; Sanctuary House, sanctuaryhousegso.com; or First Presbyterian Church, fpcgreensboro.org.