Marvin Brunson Jr.

Julius Marvin Brunson, Jr., 87, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away on June 20, 2026. He was born on March 4, 1939, in Columbia, SC and lived a full and blessed life grounded in hard work, community service, and a deep love and commitment for family and friends.

In 1961, Marvin married his high school sweetheart, Mary Anne, and they shared a full life together for over 64 years. Together, they were proud parents of their son, Marvin Thad Brunson (Liz), and deeply loved their five grandchildren, Zachary Daniel Brunson (Julie), Nathan Paul Brunson (Kristina), Mary Elizabeth Porter (Hunter), Jacob Thad Brunson, Patrick David Brunson (Hannah) as well as 11 beautiful great grandchildren, all of whom lovingly called him “Papa”. He is survived by his sister, Jackie Thomas (Ray), and sister-in-law, Linda Sligh. Marvin was preceded in death by his parents, Julius Sr. and Frances Brunson, his brother, Ralph Brunson, and brother-in-law, Strother Sligh.

Marvin was born, raised, lived and served in the Columbia area his entire life. He was a 1957 graduate of Columbia High School where he starred in football, baseball and track. Following high school, he proudly served his country in the SC Air National Guard which included active-duty service in Spain in 1962 during the Berlin Crisis. Shortly after his military service, Marvin began employment with the SC Department of Transportation, starting out as a survey rodman constructing I-26 north of Columbia and advanced to the position of Final Plans Engineer. He retired with over 40 years of dedicated service to the State.

Marvin and Mary Anne spent many cherished years on Lake Murray. He bought lakeside property outside of Hilton, SC in the early 1960’s where he built a weekend getaway so his family could enjoy fishing, swimming and skiing on the water. In 1976, Marvin and Mary Anne moved to their current lake home near the Lake Murray Dam where for over 50 years they enjoyed life together and created wonderful family memories.

“Back in the day,” Marvin enjoyed playing men’s softball, playing in local leagues as well as travelling across the state and region for competitive tournaments. He was an avid golf enthusiast, playing for many years with his “Tuesday Group” at Mid-Carolina Golf Club and organizing and playing in many SCDOT and charity tournaments. Playing these sports, Marvin developed many meaningful, life-long friendships which included his beloved “3rd Thursday” group.

Marvin served his church and community throughout his life. Marvin was an active member at Eau Claire Baptist Church serving as a Sunday School teacher, deacon and facilities committee member. In recent years, he and Mary Anne attended St. Andrews Baptist Church where they served as “Coffee Team” members. He was a member of the Boylston Lodge in Ballentine, Scottish Rite and was a dedicated member of the Jamil Shrine Temple where he served many years as a member of the Sportsters Motor unit.

Marvin was deeply loved by his family and friends. He was widely respected and will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Service Information

Visitation with the family will be held on Thursday evening, June 25, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 pm at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home located at 503 North Lake Drive in Lexington, SC.

Funeral services will be held at graveside on Friday morning, June 25, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Elmwood Cemetery, 501 Elmwood Avenue, Columbia, SC 29201. Honorary pallbearers will be the men of the “3rd Thursday” group.