Photo courtesy of Beckett-Brown & Hodges Funeral Home - Philadelphia
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Feb 20, 1932 – Dec 27, 2020 (Age 88)
Marshall Johnson was born in Philadelphia on February 20, 1932 to the parents of James and Elsie Johnson. He was called home to be with the Lord on December 27, 2020.
Marshall was educated in the School District of Philadelphia. Upon graduation, he married Betty May and to that union, three sons were born, (Stephen, Leslie, and Gregory). Later in life, Marshall met his life partner, Ruth Beasley. From this union, his fourth child and only daughter, Monique, was born.
Marshall held various jobs from an early age. At his first job, he worked as a Driver and later became manager of Circle C Cleaners. He enjoyed driving and meeting new and interesting people. Later he worked as a driver for the Yellow Cab Company where again he met different people. Marshall also worked as a Route Supervisor for Arcade Vending Company where he continued to build his contacts. He later worked as Insurance Agent for New York Life. His most rewarding job was as a Front Desk Concierge at the Dorchester Condo, where he worked from 1976 until his death. This job allowed Marshall to utilize his God-given gifts that he loved the most; listening to Jazz, talking to people, and driving clients to different destinations. Marshall did not consider this work because it was something that he would have done without compensation.
Marshall was an avid traveler and worked part-time as a Travel Promoter. He enjoyed booking tours and traveling (particularly cruising) to the Caribbean Islands and to Europe and Africa. During this employment, Marshall impressed clients with his immaculate and strong sense of style by the way he dressed. His favorite stores were Boyd’s, Neiman Marcus and Barney’s of New York.
One of the great things about Marshall was his memory. He would never allow a birthday or holiday to go by without his acknowledgment of a card and a check.
Marshall leaves to mourn, his life partner, Ruth; Children, Stephen (Phyllis); Leslie (Yassmin); Gregory (Kimberly); Monique (Paul); 11 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren; three nephews, Ralph, John, and Stanley; along with a host of other family and friends.
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Uncle I think of you often. I can't believe it's been 2 years already. Rest well! Renee
Renee Anderson
January 09, 2023 | Philadelphia, PA
I first met Marshall in May of 1977, a month before our company purchased The Dorchester Apartments from Ambassador McCloskey’s Family. Marshall was the quintessential ambassador for The Dorchester. Like the very best of the team in that era. Marshall had the qualities inherent in the finest staff in the hospitality industry. He was a talented man with a heart that truly cared about others. He was always there to lend a helping hand. He rarely said no, and when he did he was right. He was...
Kenneth P. Balin
February 04, 2022 | Philadelphia, PA | Friend
To his memory , of service to many residents and guest . Clear servant to one . Rest my good and , faithful servant . A fellow concierge . shalom
Timothy Lancaster
March 09, 2021 | Philadelphia, PA | Coworker
Marshall Johnson was loved, respected and admired by his family, friends and the many acquaintances at The Dorchester. Among his fine qualities was great empathy, optimism , wisdom--and his love and knowledge of Jazz!
Mr. Johnson will be greatly missed.
Rochelle Owens
January 23, 2021 | Philadelphia, PA | Acquaintance
Marshall was a loving life partner, father, father-in-law, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He was passionate about his love for his family. With every person he encountered, he left a remarkable and memorable impression. Marshall was a fashionable and charismatic gentleman!
He was dedicated to his profession and work. His love for music was highlighted daily at work. Marshall played Jazz music for guests and those that resided at the Dorchester, to the delight of everyone!...
Ms. Bobbie, Aliyah, Iman Bullard
January 23, 2021 | Philadelphia, PA | Family
Remembered By
Mrs. Sandra Rose &Family
January 23, 2021 | Philadelphia, PA | Family
Marshall was a loving father ,father -in-law, grandfather, life -partner, uncle, and friend .He was passionate about his love for his family. On every person he encountered, he left a remarkable and memorable impression. Marshall was a fashionable, charismatic gentleman! He was dedicated to his profession and work. His love for music was highlighted daily at work. Marshall played his Jazz music for guests, and those that lived at the Dorchester, to the delight of everyone! Aunt Ruth,...
Ms. Bobbie, Aliyah &Iman Bullard
January 23, 2021 | Philadelphia, PA | Family
Marshall was a long time friend of our family-many trips to NYC and other places.always in good spirits and ready to be helpful.Lots of talk about music and food.He introduced me to many eating places between Phila and NYC ,particularly Sylvia’s.Not too much contact lately due to virus.I will miss him.a really good man!!
Dick Rosenbleeth
Dick Rosenbleeth
January 23, 2021 | Bala Cynwyd, PA
Life at the Dorchester will not be the same without this dear man with a warm smile and greeting for everyone who passed. He was so good at what he did! I used to love to talk to him about jazz and listen at whatever he was playing that evening. He had a great laugh! My heart goes out to his family — please know he will be missed!
Mary Thompson
January 23, 2021 | Philadelphia, PA | Friend
