Grafton V. Marshall

Grafton V. Marshall—a husband, father, beloved mentor, and friend—passed away peacefully on August 21st, 2021, at his home in Wilmington, Delaware, surrounded by his loving family. He was 79 years old.  

Grafton was born on January 11, 1942, in the small town of Cheriton, VA to Bertha Council. He was raised by his mother, Bertha, and stepdad Walter Lee Green.

Emerging from humble beginnings, Grafton knew that he wanted to make a life for himself in the Northeast, which prompted him to migrate north to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at the age of 13. Soon after, Grafton took to driving and went on to become a highly skilled truck driver. He drove near and far, all by way of his career, and was also able to use this skill to be of help to his Church. Shortly after retiring, his love for driving compelled him to get back on the road. Grafton was also an avid reader, who understood the importance and value of education, especially for his children and those he mentored. He was an active member of the Church of Christ (Iglesia Ni Cristo) and served as a deacon for as long as he was able. He was a pioneering member of the Delaware Extension congregation and happily offered his home to serve as an interim place of worship.

Grafton will be remembered as a man with a hearty laugh and commanding voice, who was always there for his family. He will forever be valued as a father figure to many more than just his biological children, such as several of his nephews and nieces. He will be eternally acknowledged for his persistence and his refusal to give up hope on anyone that he loved. Grafton would literally go to the ends of the earth for any of his family that he felt could use some guidance or help. This was his most memorable trait and a huge part of the legacy that he leaves behind—inspiring us to live up to our greatest potential and to never give up on those around us who could benefit from the same care, love, and guidance that he afforded us.   

His memory will be treasured and kept alive by his loving wife Gloria Marshall, his dear children Grafton C. Marshall (wife: Donna), Eric Marshall (wife: Michele), Pamela Marshall, and Natasha Esguerra (husband: Fred), his beloved grandchildren Mariah, Ebony, Jamal, Jamir, William, and Harper, and his cherished great grandchild, Demetrius. 

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing and visitation with his family on Wednesday, August 25 & Thursday, August 26, 2021 from 5-7pm at the Mark C. Tilghman Funerakl Home, 38 North Forklanding Rd., Maple Shade. His interment will be private.