Billy Joe Curtis

Billy Joe Curtis was born on March 14, 1937 at his home in Natchez, Mississippi to Annie Ruth and Clarence Marshall Sr. He was the third of four children and was affectionately known as Buddy to family and BJ to friends and colleagues.

BJ’s friends would say he was known for being the life of the party. His playful personality and infectious laugh could light up any room. As a family man, he was known for being a provider who was there whenever you called. He was a fun loving, charismatic and out-going man who was cherished for his unwavering loyalty and support. Buddy enjoyed collecting and caring for his cars, cooking (especially turkey), listening and dancing to the blues, watching baseball and westerns, having a drink of cognac with his chewing tobacco or a cigar, playing softball for his company team, telling jokes and being a great storyteller.

After unapologetically living a full life, Billy peacefully transitioned in the early morning of Monday, August 31, 2020 at his home in Inglewood surrounded by his family. He is preceded in death by his parents Annie Ruth and Clarence Marshall Sr.; sister, Edna “Sis” Marshall; brother, Robert “Moody” Marshall; and son Melvin Marshall. He now leaves to cherish his memory his wife Ruby Curtis of 48 years; children: Marvin Marshall Sr., Greg Marshall Sr., Jerome Marshall, Pamela Curtis, Vickie Curtis; grandchildren: Shamara Marshall, Marvin Marshall Jr., Greg Marshall Jr., Brittany Usher, Xavier Antoine, Kendall Antoine; grand dog, Shadow; brother, Walter Marshall and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.

This unforgettable man has left a legacy filled with rich Curtis history and love that his family and friends will cherish forever.