James A. Marshall, Jr., 67, affectionately known as Jimmy, Bunny, Billy and Shack of Lynchburg, was called home by his Savior on September 22, 2018, at Curis at Lynchburg Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (formerly Avante) after a valiant battle against cancer.  Born on August 28, 1951, James was the son of the late James A. Marshall, Sr. and the late Grace English Marshall.

A native of Madison Heights, VA, James lived in the central Virginia area all his life.  Educated in Amherst County, he graduated from Amherst County High School in 1969 and went on to receive his Bachelor and master's degrees from Virginia Tech.  It was at VA Tech that he was initiated into Groove Phi Groove Social Fellowship, Incorporated.

James accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior through baptism at an early age.  He was a member of Lovingston Baptist Church.  In his young adult life, he shared with many young men, who needed to hear the Word, his love for Christ and knowledge of the bible through classes taught in the basement of the church.  James loved the old hymns and he would often break into song with his loved ones and anyone else who would listen.

Quite the athlete, many remember James for his ability to play sports.  As young teens, he and his cousin/brother Robert played baseball with grown men and traveled all over the region competing against very talented athletes.  Stories are still told today about how good they were.  He was no slouch on the basketball court and football field.

Having worked many jobs in the region, James was best known for his work in education.  He was a life long learner and shared his love for learning with as many people as he could.  He served as the Executive Director of National Business College, and was an instructor at Miller-Motte College, Phillips Business College, Job Corps, Lyn-CAG GED Professional Development Program, Buckingham Correctional Facility, and many other tutoring and GED programs throughout the area.  He also worked tirelessly to tutor any individual who desired his help while earning college degrees as well as GEDs.

Later in life, nothing made James happier than to work with his hands.  He could be seen trimming hedges, cutting lawns, painting houses and doing anything to make places more beautiful.  He loved working and beings outdoors.

Though he never married or had children of his own, James loved children and had many "nieces, nephews, and grandchildren" that he called his own.  He made them all feel special.  James also loved animals.  He could be found traveling across the city providing food to strays.

James was preceded by his parents, James and Grace Marshall; his sister, Betty English; his devoted cousin/brother, Robert J. Miller, Jr., and a surrogate son, Michael Johnson.  He is survived by numerous cousins; a devoted friend, Dr. Yvette Harps-Logan; the brothers of the VA tech Chapter of Groove Phi Groove and a host of other relatives and close friends.