Betty Jean Marshall

Betty Jean Marshall, affectionately known as “B.J.” to many and Ms. Betty to some was born March 19, 1945 in Tampa, Florida to the late Nathaniel and Gladys Jefferson. Betty lived her life marked by unwavering faith, a strong love for her family, and commitment to serving others.

Betty attended H.A. Hunt High School. In her younger years of life she met Walter L. Marshall and became his beautiful blushing bride. She gave her life to the Lord at a young age. For many years Betty attended Faith Temple in Fort Valley, Ga. In October 2022, she proudly joined Greater Love Community Church in Hawkinsville, GA in which her beloved son was the Founder and Lead Pastor.

Serving others came naturally and cooking was her passion. Betty graciously spread an outpouring of love, warmth and kindness towards her family and community, especially the children. She was known as the community mother. Mother Marshall was always ready to share a snack with any child that came to her front door. Her devotion to serve God and others led her to create the Greater Love Food Pantry Ministry.

A devoted Christian Mother Marshall constantly reminded her loved ones to “keep the faith”. Her faith was an important part of who she was, and she carried that spirit of love and encouragement throughout her life.

Mother Marshall peacefully transitioned to her eternal home on September 20, 2026. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Walter L. Marshall Sr., son Pastor Walter L. Marshall Jr., sisters Christine Rumph, Creasy Rumph, Barbara Ficklin, and Willie Mae Caldwell; and her brothers Ernest Jefferson Sr., Nathaniel Jefferson Jr. and David L. Jefferson Sr.

Mother Marshall leaves memories to be treasured along with her loving and caring daughter Sandra B. Marshall of Fort Valley, GA; daughter-in-law Mallerina Marshall of Kathleen, GA; and beloved grandchildren: Crystal (Travis) Germany of Conyers, GA, Brittany Marshall of Mableton, GA, James “Jay” Harris Jr. of Bonaire, GA, Bria Mathis of Fort Valley, GA, Ashley Houston of Atlanta, GA, Deon Sanders of Warner Robins, GA, and Jessica Marshall of Augusta, GA.

She is also lovingly remembered by her great grandchildren: Keaton Sanders Jr. of Atlanta, GA, Jasmine Harris of Warner Robins, GA, Amaiyah Mathis of Fort Valley, GA, Princeton Houston of Atlanta, GA, Addisyn Henton of Fort Valley, GA, and Bailey Mathis of Fort Valley, GA.

Betty is also survived by three sisters: Marilyn Lester of Warner Robins, GA, Rosa Jefferson of Macon, GA, and Cheronne Booker of Douglasville, GA; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who loved her dearly.