William Edward Marden

MARDEN---William Edward Marden, 78, of Orange Park, FL, passed away peacefully at 2:35 p.m. on April 8, 2025, at St. Vincent's Riverside Community Hospice. In a touching moment of timing, he departed this world on what would have been his beloved wife Judy's 80th birthday.
Born in Palatka, FL, William was the son of Roy F. Marden and Elena Marden. He graduated from Palatka High School and went on to live a life rich in words, creativity, and connection. On October 1, 1976, he married Judy Diane Lastinger, and together they built a life full of love and family.
William was a talented writer and journalist, whose career spanned freelance work, editing, and reporting for the Florida Times-Union. He later shared his expertise by teaching Journalism in the Duval County School System. Writing was a defining part of William's life. His journey as an author began in 1974 with the publication of his first novel, The Exile of Ellendon, marking the start of a long and successful career as a storyteller. Even after retiring in his late 60s, his passion for writing never faded, and he continued to publish his books on multiple platforms.
He enjoyed camping and traveling with his family, treasuring the memories they created together during these adventures. William will be remembered for his sharp intellect, his warm presence, and the joy he brought to those around him. Beyond his writing, he was a loving and devoted family man, always showing care, love, and support for his loved ones, especially his sweet Jackie, who held a special place in his heart.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Judy Diane Marden, and his parents, Roy F. Marden and Elena Marden. He is survived by his two children, Mitchell Howard Jones of Orange Park, FL, and Michael Scott Jones (Christina Renee Jones) of Middleburg, FL; one sister, Meri Louise Pope (C. Stephen Pope) of Palatka, FL; four grandchildren, Jacqueline Brooke Jett (Kyle Brian Jett) of Roanoke, AL, Tyler Scott Jones of Middleburg, FL, Christina Louise Robinson (Travin Robinson) of Palatka, FL, and Jeremy Mitchell Jones of Jacksonville, FL; and six great-grandchildren, Kyle Brian Jett Jr. and Liam Carter Jett of Roanoke, AL, Alyssa Nichole Robinson, Chance Cole Robinson, Emma Grace Robinson, and Maisie Kate Robinson of Palatka, FL.
Also surviving him are his niece Melissa Candace Chatterton (David George Chatterton) of St. Augustine, FL, and great-niece and nephew Jocelyn Gabriella Chatterton and Evan Foster Chatterton, also of St. Augustine. William was deeply loved by many extended family members and friends who welcomed him as their own.
A memorial service in celebration of his life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday April 11, 2025 in the chapel of Jacksonville Memory Gardens Funeral Home, 111 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, FL with his Amazing Uncle Steven Lastinger officiating. Family members and friends will gather from 10:00 AM until the hour of service at the funeral home. All are encouraged to share photos, condolences, and other remembrances of William on the Tribute Wall here.