James Marsh

James Allen “Jim” Marsh, 81, of Harkers Island, passed away on December 21, 2025, at Carteret Health Care in North Carolina.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Vergie Mae Cemetery in Harkers Island, officiated by Rev. Clint Nelson.

Born on June 12,1944 in Birmingham, AL, where his father was in flight training with the U.S. Air Force. Jim lived a life marked by devotion—to his family, his faith, and his passions. A proud alumnus of St. Albans High School in West Virginia, Jim made a name for himself as a talented baseball pitcher. His skill on the mound earned him the nickname “Mudcat,” a name that followed him through his college years at West Virginia State College. He also played basketball throughout his formative years topping out as a center at 6'4" on the court in high school.

Jim’s love for sports extended beyond the baseball diamond. He was an enthusiastic supporter of West Virginia University football and basketball. But nothing brought him more peace and joy than casting a line into the water—fishing was not just a hobby but a lifelong passion.

At the heart of Jim’s life was his steadfast faith in his Lord. He harbored a deep trust in Jesus Christ and lived each day grounded in his belief in the Lord and Savior. His spiritual commitment was evident to all who knew him and served as a guiding light throughout his journey. Jim had a deep passion for music that honored the Lord that he loved sharing with others. Jim’s love for music and his Lord led him to sing at various churches and even to make his own CD.

Jim is lovingly remembered by his wife, Alice Marsh of Harkers Island, NC; his sister Marilyn Gilbert and husband James Gilbert of Fredericksburg, VA; daughters Shelly Hodges and husband Jim Hodges of Nitro, WV; and Barbara Nicholas and husband John Nicholas of Newport News, VA; stepdaughter Cindy Lehner and husband Greg Lehner of Cary, NC; and stepson Harry “Chip” Shaver and wife Nancy Shaver.

He also leaves behind eight grandchildren who brought great joy to his life: Kelsea Hasbrouck and husband Chaz Hasbrouck of Rock Hill, SC; Wesley Nicholas and fiancée Chantelle of Newport News, VA; Noah Lehner, Ryan Lehner, and Jessica Lehner of Cary, NC; Christie Shaffer, Joseph Shaver, and Nikkole “Nikki” Shaver. In addition to these beloved grandchildren are numerous great-grandchildren and nieces who will carry forward memories of Jim’s warmth and presence.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Free Grace Wesleyan Church, PO Box 458, Harkers Island, NC 28532 or Carteret County Home Health and Hospice.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noefs.net

Arrangements by Noe Funeral Service, Inc. of Beaufort, NC.