Marsha Armstrong Jarrell

September 2, 2021

Marsha Armstrong Jarrell

Charlotte, North Carolina – Marsha Jarrell did not go quietly through this life. She was undaunted, outspoken and fiercely independent. Though challenged by an autoimmune condition, it was no match for her spirit. That’s what everyone loved about Marsha.

Marsha Armstrong Jarrell died on Sept. 2, 2021, after a period of declining health. The world is a lesser place without her here to weigh in. She was 75.

Marsha was born on May 6, 1946, the daughter of Judge Frank and Dorothy Armstrong. She grew up in Troy, N.C., 60 miles east of Charlotte, but found her lifelong home in Charlotte when she attended Queens College (now University), earning a degree in math. Here she raised three sons and shared love and support with children in need as a Guardian ad Litem and advocate with The Children’s Law Center. She was passionate about everything she did: Cheering her boys on at ballgames, overseeing family beach trips, connecting with her many girlfriends, and supporting her church, Myers Park United Methodist. Marsha did nothing halfway, especially when it involved the privilege of helping anyone and everyone who needed it.

Marsha is survived by three sons, all of whom lived nearby in Charlotte, such a blessing – Douglas and his wife, Charlotte, Taylor and his wife, Diep, and Ben and his wife, Kate; five grandchildren whom she adored – Baker, Stuart, Jackson, Hannah and Ella; one sister, Patti Armstrong Simmons, of Sanford, N.C.; and several half-brothers and sisters. She is also survived by her former husband, Fincher Jarrell, of Charlotte.

The family expresses its deepest gratitude to everyone who supported Marsha during her life’s journey. Family and friends helped her cope with her chronic illness. When she moved to Sharon Towers in 2017 – no easy transition for Marsha – the loving community there brightened her final years. Thank you to the medical team for the care they offered in the final weeks. A bottom-of-the-heart thank you to Willietta Thompson, a friend to Marsha and the family for 50 years.

A service to celebrate Marsha’s life will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 11, 2021 at Myers Park United Methodist Church, 1501 Queens Road, Charlotte. Visitation will follow at the church. Please wear a mask and practice social distancing. You can also view the service via livestream at https://livestream.com/mpumc/funeral

A gift in Marsha’s memory can be made to the Walter Ball Music Fund at Myers Park United Methodist Church, 1501 Queens Road, Charlotte, N.C. 28207. Marsha found comfort in Sunday worship, and the sacred music.

For a kind soul who never had trouble being heard, Marsha’s greatest joy came in the quieter moments, especially later in life. A good book or crime drama on TV. A hot cup of coffee to start the day. A BLT at lunch. Dinner with the family, dessert providing the sweetest ending.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, N.C. 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

Share your memories & condolences

Comments

  • Tri Nguyen

    My thoughts are with the Jarrell family. I’m so sorry for your lost. Marsha was a beautiful, strong and caring woman. She will be dearly missed.

    Short URL:
  • Sissie Moore King

    Marsha and I played basketball together back in the day. Marsha definitely had her own way about herself and I think that is what drew me to her. We would give her a ride home after practice. I always thought that she was one of the prettiest girls at West Montgomery. So sorry for the loss of your mother.

    Short URL:
  • The Swallows

    Words that express who Marsha was to us… strength, compassion, resilience, determined, resolved … the epitome of maternal love for her family, friends and community. We are so blessed to have been part of Marsha’s life … to share in all the amazing memories created together as part of the Jarrell-Nguyen clan.

    The first moment we met Marsha, she hugged us and treated us like family. She loved us like we were one of her own. We’ll always think of Marsha as the Arm”strong” force of nature that she was and will forever live on through her sons and their beautiful families.

    We are deeply saddened for her passing and will always carry her in our hearts. Our condolences goes to the Jarrell family and our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time of loss.

    With sympathy,

    Ryan, Chi, Ethan and Kyle Swallow

    Short URL:
  • Susan Krasniewski

    Marsha was a lifesaver for me when I had breast cancer. She took me to dr appointments and was there for moral support. She was a friend who was quick to see the need and meet it. Ben and my son Mark were in school together. I remember my husband and I and our two children spending a weekend at the Jarrell home because I had injured my back and Marsha decided I should not be doing anything except resting! Marsha will be missed and all of the Jarrells will be in our prayers.

    Short URL:
  • Lillian Campbell

    Sending condolences to the family. I was blessed with having Marsha as a client of Park Studios for 30 years. She provided me with lots of caring & trust during our years together. She always spoke her mind & kept me on my toes. Will always love her spirit. Wishing all the best

    Short URL:
  • Susan Buchanan Kelly

    Ben, I am Nate Buchanan's mom. I have never forgotten your mother. She had such an impact on me during some troublesome times and she used her fighting spirit for my family's benefit. I was involved in litigation with Nate's dad that included custody and your mom went to bat for me during the whole process at the Children's Law Center. She was a wonderful, spirited lady and i am grateful to have known her. Sincerely, Susan B Kelly

    Short URL:
  • Melvin and Anita McIntosh

    We have appreciated Marsha's friendship for many years, and our Sundays were always brightened when we could attend worship in person, at Myers Park UMC, and Marsha sat two pews in front of us. It was always a joy to converse with her on those occasions. May God's loving comfort be with all her family during these days.

    Short URL:
  • Marianne R.Prophet

    My deepest sympathy to the Jarrell family. Marsha was a true blessing. My greatest memories are babysitting for Douglas and Taylor when they were both babies…I loved this family like my own! Never did I imagine Marsha would have gained her “wings” so soon. Heaven is rejoicing, and I am praying for the entire Jarrell family. May HIS peace give you strength during this difficult time. Thankful I kept in touch and now cherish our last visit together. Marsha you are forever in my heart.

    Short URL:
  • Sandy Sinclair Tanner

    Marsha was my late daddy’s (Charles Armstrong Sinclair) cousin. Please accept deepest condolences from our family to yours!

    Short URL: