Marcus Leftwich, Sr.

Marcus Lebron Key Leftwich, 64, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 15, 2025.

Born in Fort Valley, Georgia, Marcus was raised with a deep sense of family, faith, and humor by his beautiful mother, Blonnelle Kendrick Leftwich, and veteran father, Hilliard Leftwich - values that shaped the man he became.

Upon moving to Chattanooga, TN, Marcus was a proud graduate of Tyner High School, and was a standout athlete, setting track records and excelling on the football field, which earned him a scholarship to Austin Peay State University. Throughout his life, he worked tirelessly to provide for his family, often juggling multiple jobs — including positions with the U.S. Postal Service, UPS, and Mueller Co.

But Marcus’s greatest gift was found in the kitchen. A naturally talented and inventive chef, he brought joy to countless people through his work at Steak and Ale, J. Alexander’s, and aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat. Among his proudest achievements was taking the oath into the Naval Reserves, with his children standing proudly by his side.

Marcus is survived by his loving sister Cheryl McLean (Al), brothers Aubrey Leftwich (Sabrina) and Randall Leftwich (Eunice), and his cherished children Zachary Leftwich (Justine), Taylor Leftwich-Amor (Ben), Isaiah, Marcus, and Jacob Leftwich. He was the proud grandfather of Iya, Cyrus, and Anya Leftwich, and Adam and Amir Amor, all of whom brought him immense joy.

He found happiness in the simple pleasures — cooking for friends and family, watching westerns on television, and lighting up every room with his infectious laughter. Humor was his hallmark, and love was his legacy.

A public viewing will be held Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at 9:00 a.m., followed by funeral services at 10:00 a.m. at John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37404 Marcus will be laid to rest at Willow Lake Memorial Gardens in Fort Valley, Georgia, at approximately 4:30 p.m.

Marcus Leftwich lived with ambition, passion, and heart. He aimed high, loved deeply, and laughed often — and the warmth of his spirit will live on forever in all who were blessed to know him.