Dewey Marshall

Dewey Journell Marshall, 97 years of age, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, February 9, 2024, in Salem, Virginia.

Dewey was born July 2, 1926, in Hillsville, Virginia to the late Lawrence and Oder Marshall. He was the youngest of 8 children. Dewey grew up on a farm in the rolling green hills of Willis, Virginia and graduated from Willis High School.

After high school Dewey fought and served in the US Army during World War II. When a truck he was riding in was attacked and blown up by enemy fire he was captured and taken prisoner in Germany. He was later freed by American forces. In September 2023 his family was informed by the Veterans Administration that he was the last living POW from WW II in Southwest Virginia.

After the war Dewey moved to Roanoke where he worked at the American Theater and American Viscose before settling into his career with Porterfield Distributing from which he retired in the 1990s.

Dewey was a working man, quiet and reserved as many others of the greatest generation. He showed his love for his family by what he did, more than what he said. His example of love, strength and benevolence for his family is a light that will shine brightly well beyond his passing on Friday. A long life of adversities and blessings seemed to only encourage the wisdom in his gentle laugh and smiling eyes. The warmth and comfort he brought to his family will be dearly missed.

Dewey was preceded in death by his loving wife Katherine Marshall and daughter Teresa Marshall, his father and mother, five brothers and two sisters. He is survived by a daughter, Brenda Eanes (Gary), grandson Brian Marshall, 4 step grandchildren Maria, Jorge, Raquel and Rosealinda Eanes; a daughter, Debbie Bateman, grandson Richard Bateman (Trina), great-grandson Patrick Bateman, great granddaughter Morgan Sherry (Austin), 3 great great grandchildren Levi, Ryder, and Josie.

The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support.

The funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM with visitation beginning at 11:00 AM Tuesday, February 13th, 2024, at Lotz Funeral Home, 1330 E Main St. Salem, VA 24153. Dr. J. Michael Palmer will be officiating the services.  Interment will follow in Sherwood Memorial Park.