Phylliss R. Marshall

On April 24,1951, the world welcomed a remarkable soul, Phylliss Renee Steward, in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania. Born to her loving parents, Elizabeth Louise McDaniels and Lanford Wilson Steward, Phylliss was the cherished second child in her family of this union, joining her supportive older brother, Philip Steward, and older sister, Barbara Myers.

Phylliss spent her childhood in Philadelphia before moving to Pleasantville, New Jersey, where she created wonderfully lasting friendships, particularly with Mrs. Shirley Dixon. Graduating from Pleasantville High School in 1969 marked the beginning of her adventurous educational journey. She pursued her passion for learning at Atlantic Cape Community College in Mays Landing, New Jersey, earning an Associate's degree in Sociology in 1972. She didn't stop there; Phylliss fostered her academic curiosity and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Trenton State College in 1973. It was during these formative years that she cultivated lifelong friendships with Grace Burch and Joyce Kennedy and proudly became an active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

In the midst of her educational journey, Phylliss found her soulmate, Carlton Wendell Marshall, and they began a beautiful journey together on September 1, 1973. Their partnership blossomed, and they raised two incredible daughters, NaShawna Marshall, born on October 22, 1975, and Cherre Marshall, born on May 25, 1979, who filled their lives with joy and laughter.

Phylliss began her professional journey as a dedicated teaching aide at Groveton High School (now West Potomac High School) from 1976 to 1980. She then embarked on a fulfilling 15-year career at AT&T from 1983 to 1998, where she forged meaningful relationships and made a positive impact on the lives of many.

A hallmark of Phylliss's life was her incredible generosity and vivacious spirit. She had an innate ability to sense the needs of others, often anticipating them before they were even spoken. Her passions were as diverse as the beautiful connections she made; she enjoyed interior decorating, crafting, and had a delightful passion for collecting blue glass, bells, crystals, and thimbles. Music played an essential role in her life, and her treasured collection of 8-track tapes and vinyl records reflected her vibrant personality. Dancing with friends, often out with the late Ms. Paula Tope Best Friend/Sister at the infamous Canal 8! Showcasing her love for fashion and indulging in exquisite fragrances further enriched her existence.

As Phylliss's vision faded in her later years, she approached this challenge with grace and positivity, discovering the joy of audiobooks. Her gift for friendship shone through in her steadfast connections, from her joyous youth filled with dancing and family gatherings to her active participation in the color guard during high school and her continued dedication to her sorority.

Phylliss had a unique talent for giving, often surprising loved ones with well-timed kindness. She faced life's challenges with remarkable strength, embodying the resilient Taurus spirit! Her warmth, uplifting words, and radiant smile left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.

The legacy of Phylliss is vibrantly continued through her beloved daughters, NaShawna Marshall and Cherre Marshall-Simpson (along with her wife, Phoebe Marshall-Simpson), and her delightful four grandchildren-Keshon Smith, D'Asia Smith, Taylor Smith, and Emily Marshall-Simpson. She is fondly remembered by her goddaughter, Antoinette Harris, her bonus daughter, Danielle Top, her bonus son, Robert Trotter, and her many cherished nieces and nephews.

Now, Phylliss is joyfully reunited in spirit with her father, Lanford Steward; her mother, Elizabeth Steward; her sister, Barbara Myers; her brother, Philip Steward; and her ex-husband, Carlton Marshall. Her lifelong friend, Shirley Dixon, along with college friends Grace Burch and Joyce Kennedy, will treasure her memory always.

To truly know Phylliss was to embrace her vibrant spirit and share in the warmth she radiated. Her legacy of love and connection will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her!!