James Franklin Marshall

Laguna Vista – James “Jim” Franklin Marshall, a devoted father, cherished grandfather, and loyal friend, passed away on March 19, 2025, at Rio Grande Regional Hospital. Born on September 17, 1946, in Jackson, Tennessee, Jim’s life was defined by love—for his family, work, and the countless people fortunate enough to know him.

Raised in Chicago, Illinois, alongside his five sisters, Jim’s childhood was filled with laughter and strong family bonds. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War, carrying a sense of duty and resilience that shaped the rest of his life.

After his military service, fate brought him together with Pamela “Pam” Skerrett through mutual friends—the beginning of a lifelong love story. Jim and Pam married on May 1, 1970, building a life rich with music, dancing, and the warmth of family and friends.

Jim’s career as an electrician took him across the country and beyond, but no matter how far his work led him, he made every effort to align his schedule with Pam’s so he could be home with his daughters. Known for his remarkable skill and ingenuity, he earned the affectionate nickname “Mr. Fix It.” His knack for tinkering and problem-solving extended beyond his profession—he was a true MacGyver, constantly finding creative solutions and passing on his practical knowledge. His motto “If I can’t fix it, it ain’t Broke”, and “Daddy-Do” were legendary.

As a father, Jim ensured Traci and Amy were well-prepared for life, teaching them invaluable skills. They mastered driving a stick shift, changing a tire, and checking their own oil. Thanks to his guidance, they also became adept at assembling things—tables, bookshelves, TV stands, changing light bulbs, batteries, air filters and the occasional Sprinkler panel. Whenever his daughters got behind the wheel, he never failed to rattle off a highly detailed turn by turn route to their destination.

Beyond practical life skills, Jim filled his daughters’ childhoods with adventure—whether taking them to a Dallas Mavericks game, a Texas Rangers game at the Ballpark, or learning to ride dirtbikes. While he would often declare, “No more animals,” the family somehow always ended up with another one. One particularly memorable moment came after Amy’s senior trip when Jim was supposed to pick the girls up from the airport. Instead, he sent a friend to retrieve them, only to surprise them at home with a new dog, Bailey—a testament to his playful spirit and knack for surprises.

Jim kept the adventure going even on mundane school mornings. Younger sister Amy got her special wake-up call—lights flipped on, blankets yanked away, and a cheerful song: "Amy, Amy, get uppy uppy!" If that didn’t do the trick, he’d call out in his best Yogi Bear voice, “Amy Magoo!” or simply, “Magoo.”

But Jim wasn’t just a father—he was a guide, a protector, and the first call when things went wrong. No matter the hour or the situation, he never hesitated to show up when his girls needed him.

With a personality that could light up any room, Jim was impossible to miss—often found in his signature baseball cap, a cold Bud in hand, and a grin that hinted at a story or a joke just waiting to be told. Over the years, he collected a variety of affectionate nicknames—Yankee Jim, Daddy, Papa—each one a reflection of the love, humor, and warmth he brought into the lives of those who knew him.

Jim’s life was filled with moments that will remain etched in the hearts of his family forever. The image of him perched on a bar stool in the kitchen, listening to WBAP AM Radio—whether it was news, baseball, or gardening advice—will always bring a smile to his daughters’ faces. Road trips, unexpected adventures, and the simple joy of sharing stories around the dinner table created cherished memories.

Jim, a true sports enthusiast, embraced his Texas roots, transitioning from his early days as a Bears fan to proudly cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Mavericks, Texas Rangers and eventually the Dallas Stars.

Jim was also a proud veteran and dedicated member of the VFW, remaining actively involved for 55 years. His service to his fellow veterans was a testament to his unwavering loyalty and commitment.

When Jim and Pam retired, they took a leap of faith and moved to South Padre Island. Making the transition even sweeter was having Pam’s sister and husband, Joan and Ron, live just across the street, ensuring their island life was filled with warmth, laughter, and good company.

Jim cherished his time as a grandfather, creating lasting memories with his granddaughters. Alayna and Brooke were lucky to spend many spring breaks and summers at Padre with Mimi and Papa, while Sarah will always remember the special days spent building sandcastles on the beach. Their time together was filled with laughter, adventure, and abundant love.

Though life brought its challenges, none were more significant than the loss of his beloved Pam after 50 years of marriage. The last few years without her were undoubtedly the hardest, but Jim’s strength and resilience carried him through. Now, those who love him take comfort in knowing that he and Pam are together again—perhaps dancing once more to their favorite tunes.

James Franklin Marshall leaves a legacy filled with love, laughter, and countless treasured memories. His spirit will always echo within the homes he built, the lives he touched, and the stories that will continue to be told for generations. As we celebrate his life, may we find solace in knowing that he is at peace, reunited with Pam, and watching over us all.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Luther Marshall and Allene Wilkinson, his loving wife, Pamela Skerrett Marshall, brother Jim Whitten, and sisters, Judy Coffman, Barbara Straatman, and Diane Gorman.

He is survived by their children, Traci Marshall and Amy Emery (John), their grandchildren, Alayna Horowitz, Brooke Horowitz, Sarah Emery, his sisters, Jane Diezi, Donna Bayes, Joan Green, caregiver Shiela Talley, and numerous nieces and nephew