Obituary of Rick Marshall

Rick Marshall, 63, died surrounded by his family on Friday, July 5, 2013 following a battle with esophageal cancer. He was born in Landis, NC on May 10, 1950 to Clara Belle Childers and George Marshall. Rick and his wife Deborah Dugger Marshall lived in Boone, NC until 2008 when they moved to Park City, UT and subsequently Tucson, AZ. Rick was a loyal, loving family man putting the needs of those he loved before his own. He loved God and devoted himself to growing as a person and being a friend to those around him. Rick was many things to many people through his jovial, kind-hearted and warm personality. He never met a stranger. He owned Gold and Closeout Connection, a pawn shop and jewelry store in Boone, NC. Rick's ultimate passion in addition to his family was softball. His love for the game, his fellow players and all things softball marked his entire life. Most of Rick's "buddies" were those that also shared his passion. Once diagnosed with cancer, Rick continued to live his life to the fullest and committed himself to demonstrating his love for his family and friends. Rick is survived by his wife of 31 years, Debbie of Tucson AZ, his daughter Lindsay of Salt Lake City, UT, his devoted brother Buddy Spears who continues to manage the NC business and his wife Tammie of Vilas, NC, step-father William Spears and brother Brian Spears of Salisbury, NC. and many friends. Debbie would like to thank all those who have shared in Rick's life and especially those who surrounded the family with so such love as Rick fought cancer. A memorial service will be held at the Saddlebrooke softball complex in Tucson, AZ at a later date. "The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord." Announcement is courtesy of Austin & Barnes Funeral Home.