Obituary published on Legacy.com by Hale-Sarver Funeral Home on Mar. 23, 2026.
Marsha Ann Kendall, 80, of West Milton, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at Ohio's Hospice of Miami County, with the love of her family by her side. Known for her warm smile, easy laughter, a fervor for finding a good garage sale, and a competitive spirit at the card table, Marsha enjoyed life most when she was surrounded by family, friends, and her grand-pups.
She was born June 15, 1945, in
Dayton, Ohio, to the late Charles Wesley Myers and Betty Jean (Smith) Boitnott.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Wesley "Skip" Myers; her stepfather, John "Gramps" Smith, who was dearly loved and a steady presence in her life; and her beloved Margaret "Aunt Annie" Downing, with whom she shared countless hours and a bond much like that of mother and daughter.
Marsha will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her husband of 61 years, David W. Kendall, and their children: Bethany Kendall, Daniel Kendall, Jonathan Kendall, Christopher Kendall, Michael Kendall, and Stephanie (David) Fogle. She was a proud grandmother to eleven grandchildren: Hannah, Gregg, Kayla, Justin, Jarred, Alexis, Myah, Jaelyn, Kristin, Jake, and Avery, and five great-grandchildren. She treasured her time with them, especially during their younger years. She also adored the many grand-dogs in the family, who always knew they could count on Grandma for a snack and a cuddle.
Marsha had a generous spirit and a natural gift for making others feel at home. Friends have said she had a special way of making people feel welcome and treating many as part of the family. She was always there for life's important moments and formed lifelong friendships filled with laughter and shared stories.
Throughout their life together, Marsha and David built a successful real estate and insurance business while also creating a home that welcomed many others along the way. Over the years, they opened their home to more than 70 foster children, providing love, stability, and care to countless young lives. Together they created not only a family but also a place where many people found belonging.
Family was at the center of Marsha's life. Her children fondly remember summers at the lake, late nights watching Star Search and Magnum P.I., driving around in search of endless garage sales, beach trips listening to the ocean waves, attending Broadway shows at the Schuster Center, and her ability to outshoot her son Jon at the range - something he is very proud of. She also loved traveling and especially enjoyed cruising and exploring new places with her daughters, creating lasting memories and plenty of laughter along the way.
She treasured time with close friends, including many adventures and garage-sale outings with her dear friend Gloria. The two often found themselves in a bit of trouble - getting lost and who knows what else - laughing all the while. She was involved in several card groups over the years and rarely passed up a chance for a game. Even when she could no longer go out, friends made sure the games continued by coming to play with her. In her last few years, she spent many afternoons' playing cards with her caregiver, Diana. The playful question of who had won that day became a familiar joke between them - and in their final game together just days before her passing, Marsha won.
Those who knew Marsha will smile and fondly remember all the laughter and stories of precious time spent together. The love she gave to her family, friends, and the many children who passed through her home will continue to live on for generations, carried forward in the lives she touched and the family she built.
A Celebration of Life service will be held by the family at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at River Valley Church in West Milton. A meal featuring Marsha's favorite foods will follow the service. Arrangements are in care of Hale-Sarver Family Funeral Home, West Milton. Friends and family may share memories and condolences at www.hale-sarver.com.
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