Fred Thomas "Tommy" Marquette

Fred Thomas "Tommy" Marquette, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on March 10, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on July 12, 1938, in Whitakers, NC, Tommy lived a life marked by dedication to family and hard work.

Tommy spent his early years as a farmer, cultivating the land with care and dedication. Later, he worked as a supervisor and scheduler at Fulflex, where he earned respect and admiration until his retirement in 1998. Even after retiring, Tommy continued to lend a helping hand to local farmers, sharing his expertise and passion for agriculture.

A man of simple pleasures, Tommy found joy in yard work, ensuring his lawn was immaculate and free of pine cones. He was also a fisherman, particularly enjoying the pursuit of croaker. His love for the outdoors was matched only by his devotion to his faith and his church community. A longstanding member of Hope Free Will Baptist Church, Tommy served as a trustee, contributing his time and efforts to the congregation he cherished.

Tommy was married to the love of his life, Mary Frances Marquette, for 68 wonderful years. Their marriage, which began on December 9, 1957, was a testament to enduring love and partnership. Those who knew them say that if you saw one, you saw the other, such was their inseparable bond.

Tommy was never seen without his trusty cowboy hat and a refreshing Pepsi in hand, a testament to his straightforward and genuine nature.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred B. Marquette and Faye W. Dishman; his granddaughter-in-law, Aimee House; and his sisters, Ann Carter, Avis Dunbar, and Kay Whitfield.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Frances Marquette; his daughters, Fran Marquette House and her husband, Steve, of Tarboro, and Terry Marquette Keeter and her husband, Bobby, of Scotland Neck; his granddaughter, Tonya Keeter; his grandsons, Chad House, Matthew House, and Thomas Lee "Tommy" Keeter and his wife, JoAnna; ten great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life graveside service will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 11 AM at Sunnyside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made directly to Hope Free Will Baptist Church, 8772 Highway 258, Scotland Neck, NC 27874 or online by clicking here; or directly to Gentiva Hospice, 1712 West Howard Avenue, Tarboro, NC 27886 or online by clicking here, honoring Tommy's commitment to his faith and community.

Tommy's legacy of love, hard work, and community spirit will be cherished by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service - Letchworth Chapel in Scotland Neck is handling arrangements for the Marquette family and online condolences may be directed to the family by visiting www.garrettsykesfs.com.