Don Marshall

(From Parker Mortuary)

Donald “Don” Lee Marshall, age 83, of Carl Junction, passed away on Sunday, November 12, 2023, at St. Luke’s Nursing Center in Carthage.

Don, son of the late Opal and Fay (Whistance) Marshall, was born on November 3, 1940, in Wagoner, MO. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Janice Clayton, on July 29, 1961, in Stockton. Together they moved to the Carl Junction area to make their home.

Don's early years were spent working as a truck driver. However, longing to be closer to his family, he made a career shift that saw him serving his local community. At the age of 50, he took the bold step of returning to school, completing the Police Academy. He then served as a Police Officer for the Carl Junction Police Department, he was the D.A.R.E. officer for the Carl Junction School District, and a bailiff for the Jasper County Sheriff's office. In his retirement, he became a vacation tour bus driver, providing others with the joy of travel. He served as a volunteer fireman and his tenure on the Carl Junction City Council further attested to his unwavering dedication to his community.

He cherished camping trips with his children every weekend, with Stockton Lake being a favored destination. Don’s grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and he was known affectionately in his neighborhood as the grandpa everyone loved. Don had a unique ability to connect with people, making friends everywhere he went. His warm and generous spirit ensured that he never met a stranger. His life was marked by a deep commitment to his family, community, and service.

Survivors include his wife, Janice Marshall, of Carl Junction; his daughters, Tammy Sparlin, and her husband, Walter, of Carl Junction, and Tonya Dilbeck, and her husband, Chuck, of Harrisonville; one brother, Gary Marshall, and his wife, Juanita, of Neosho; one sister, Joyce Whitlock, of El Dorado Springs; five grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by three brothers, Kenneth Marshall, Tommy Marshall, and Forest Marshall.

Funeral services for Donald "Don" Marshall, age 83, of Carl Junction, will be held on Thursday, November 16, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Parker Mortuary in Joplin with Reverend Bob Simon officiating. Private family inurnment will be held at a later date. 

 Memorial contributions may be made to Carl Junction Shop with a Cop or to the Carl Junction D.A.R.E. Program and may be entrusted to the mortuary.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.