Marsha Armstrong Jarrell

1946 - 2021

Marsha Armstrong Jarrell
May 6, 1946 - September 2, 2021
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.