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Ronda Marshall Obituary
Ronda Lynn Marshall, born on January 29, 1961, in Hoopa, California, left this world on her journey to the other side on July 23, 2003.
She is survived by her children, Cassandra Lynn, Roberta Elaine, and Matthew Douglas; her parents, Donna and Ray Matilton; bothers and sisters, Eugene George, and Josephine Lewis, Monica Matilton and family, Jon Matilton, Tina Rae and Gary Jury, Sr., Owen Page and Irma Matilton, Holly Fawn Spencer-Matilton and Jason Jones, Harmon Lewis and Falene Blake, Steve Burbank, Lynn Abarr and Bonnie Jackson; her other siblings, Jacqueline and Debra Marshall; her special aunts and uncles, Christopher and Tia Peters, Billy and Susan Peters, Mary and Jack Eslick, Florence White, Susan and Bob Burdick, Bertha Peters, Sue Burcell and Billy Marshall; special nieces and nephews, Julia, Gary Jr., Lovella, Ryan, Macy, Bryan, Ronnie and Keoki; her beloved cousins, Dania Rose, Penny, and Tami; many numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; and her dear friends, including Jean Thomas, and Chris Richardson.
Ronda is preceded in death by her father, Ronald Marshall; infant sister; grandparents, James and Daraxa Peters, Evelyn Marshall; uncle, James Stevens; aunt, Lee Marshall; and her favorite, Frank Douglas.
Ronda was a true community activist, a dedicated teacher, volunteer firefighter and student, Ronda was the Co-founder of GOT WATER, a campaign bringing awareness to the need to protect traditional environmental rights. Ronda had many talents, and with photography she was able to show us what touched her soul. Her messages will live on in her photographs forever. Ronda held a special place in her heart for all the students she touched through her twelve years of teaching. Ronda truly led by example, and gave with her whole heart. She was a strong traditional Native woman, who contributed to and watched with pride her family participate in the local ceremonies. She sought out her elders to learn the language, stories, and culture. She valued the time spent with her elders as much as they enjoyed sharing their knowledge. Ronda was continuing her education at Humboldt State University. She was completing her Master’s in Education/Administration. As involved as Ronda was in her career and community activities, her children were always the center of her life. With a mother’s love, Ronda, proudly attended Cassy and Robert’s choir performances, as well as their singing in the brush dances, Matthew’s basketball games, and carrying the flint in the Deerskin Dance.
Friends and family are invited to join the family for visitation at the Matilton Family home on Telescope Road, Sunday, July 27, 2003, after 7:00 pm.
Services, officiated by Christopher Peters, will be at Mattz Gymnasium in Hoopa, at 1:00 p.m.. Burial will follow at Johnson’s Cemetery and a reception at the Weitchpec Tribal Office.
Pallbearers are Jason Jones, Gary Jury Sr., Gary Jury Jr., Harmon Lewis, Billy Joe Peters, George Lewis, Jon Matilton, Richie Marshall, Glenn Moore, Walter McKinnon, Charles Burdick, David Casebier, Pliny Jackson, and Tim McKay. Honorary Pallbearers are Ronnie Marshall, Brian David Tripp, Todd Clark, Dennis Dorion, Billy Carpenter, Dr. Richard Ricklefs, Bob Burdick, Billy Peters, Chris Peters, Brad Marshall, Joe Marshall, Joe James, Amos Tripp, and Grandpa Glenn Moore.
To assure that the work Ronda cared so much about continues, contributions can be made to the Seventh Generation Fund - Ronda Marshall Memorial Fund.
Arrangements are under the direction of Paul’s Chapel in Arcata.
Please sign the guestbook at www.times-standard.com, click on obituaries.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ronda Marshall
Mariam Mattz
July 30, 2003
To the Matilton Family:
With deepest sympathy and regard on
the passing of Ronda. I feel so sad. I'll always remember the days when I was assigned to Hoopa El and my many contacts with her. Of her strong devotion to her class; she also, took care of their emotional needs. She made sure each student was clean. And her class was set-up so neat and creative. Everyday she was packing something into her class. I don't know if that's a mark of a good teacher, but not all teachers did. She did. All of you are in my prayers and I wiil come to see you folks soon. I remain, Marian Mattz
Carole Nixon-Baldy
July 30, 2003
Ray, Donna, Cassie, Roberta and the rest of the family:
Our hearts and prayers go out to you at this time, time will help but it doesn't heal and memories will comfort you. Mom sends her love and prayers but it has just been too hot for her. Take Care.
The Nixon Family
Bill and Karen Sacchi
July 29, 2003
Our thoughts are with you in this time of sorrow. Bill and Karen Sacchi and the Staff at Beau Monde.
Carolyn Lewis
July 29, 2003
Rhonda, you have touched many lives in your short time here, family, friends and students. I am sure that everyone has a good, funny, educational or touching story as to how you have influnced someones life. Your beautiful smile will not be forgotten.
Choo
Shelly Baldy
July 29, 2003
My deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Ronda. Even though I did not know Ronda very well, I was graced by her presence at the last brush dance. My daughter, Alanis, was in the pit and Ronda came down to save her family spot on the benches. She came up and offered her help and said hello to my daughter. She shook her hand and asked her name. She showed love and interest to her and brought both of us happiness for that moment. I will never forget her beautiful smile. She was a very loving person and I am very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Everett & Marjorie Colegrove
July 28, 2003
Dear Donna & Ray:
It's hard to know what words will give comfort during times like this, but even though we didn't know Ronda very well, we always saw her at the Brush Dance's and she will be missed. Her involvement with her culture and traditions will leave an impact on those she shared her knowledge with.
Dede VanZant
July 28, 2003
I'm very sorry for your loss. I will keep you in my prayers and thoughts, so that you may find the strength at this diffcult time.
jack&mary kohler
July 28, 2003
Our deepest sympathies to the entire family,we know Rondas in good hands.
Kathy and Gary Colegrove
July 28, 2003
Ronda will always be remembered for her beautiful smile and personality.I had the pleasure of working with Ronda for several yrs. and found her a pleasure to work with. My heartfelt condolences to all her family members, know that you are all in my prayers. I know not the words to make you feel better but know that you are not alone in how you feel. There are many who will miss her greatly.
God Bless you all.
Kathy
Nikki Colegrove
July 28, 2003
I would just like to say that Ms. Marshall was a terrific Lady, and Teacher. My sister had the pleasure of being her student this past year, and she loved it. She was her favorite teacher. Jordee will always miss you. I also had Ms. Marshall as a mentor when I was in kindergarten. I remember she played "Duso the Dolphin" puppet, and from there on, the class remembered her as "Duso the Dolphin Lady." It's funny how this tiny memory has stuck with me all my life, and it always will. She will be greatly missed.
My heart goes out to her family and friends. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Kaylyn Norris
July 28, 2003
My deepest thoughts goes out to the Family.
Wanda Childers
July 28, 2003
Ronda has touched many lives and we will all miss her presence here on earth. She has gone to a better place where she will undoubtabley be surrounded by children, and to prepare a place for her own loved ones. Our sorrow is deep and heavy hearts follow. May God be with you all.
Friends Always,
The Childers Family
Kathy Hofacker
July 28, 2003
I will miss you. I remember those conversations that use to have when I was a custodian cleaning your class room and the nights that you spend preparing for your children an I know that the children will truely miss you.
Marian Whitten
July 28, 2003
My heart aches for all of you.
Bless you.
Will miss Rhonda's sweet smile.
Lesley Hunt
July 28, 2003
What a great loss your family and our community has suffered. Ronda's passion for her culture and children will live on through the wonderful memories she has left us. You family is in my heart and prayers.
Leah Brazil
July 27, 2003
My deepest sympathies to Cassie, Roberta, Matthew and the rest of the family. I know there are no words to be said to lessen your pain, but you are all in my thoughts and prayers through these hard times. God Bless.
Kimberly Stephens
July 27, 2003
A great mentor, teacher and community leader. She was not afraid to tackle the tough ones. She loved and valued her culture and people. This is what I remember the most.
Anne Martin
July 27, 2003
Dear Donna and Ray, and ALL of you,
I can only imagine the pain you and all your family are feeling now, and I know it has to be the hardest thing any of you have ever gone through. We just wanted to say that our thoughts and prayers are with you, and we are grieving for you and your tremendous loss. We know none of you will ever get over losing Ronda, but we hope that someday you'll be able to find joy in all the wonderful memories you have of her, rather than just the pain you're feeling now. The last time we saw Ronda, she was at the mall with you, Donna. I remember thinking that it was so nice that you two were so close, more like best friends than mother and daughter. I have a wonderful memory of Ronda holding Bryan in the hospital, and talking so sweet to him, and hugging on him, rubbing her cheek against his. The picture on the front page of the paper was beautiful and special, and so perfectly captured her essence. You are a special family, very loved, and loving, and I know that you will pull together and help each other through this. If there is anything we can do, please let us know.
Love, Nick, Anne, and Alicia
Leanne Estrada
July 26, 2003
He'yung,
Rhonda's passing is a devistating loss to our community, families and children. Our feelings are truly filled with saddness but our prayers are there for you in hopes of helping you to maintain your strength and great pride. May the creator provide healing and strength to all of those that Rhonda has touched in her short time in this life.
Jack Ellwanger
July 26, 2003
We will miss Ronda very much - but her spirit will be even more alive as we remember her purpose, her caring, her insights and her nuturing ways. Remembering Ronda gives us purpose.
Kristi Shelloner
July 26, 2003
I will miss Ronda's vigorous activism on behalf of children, schools, sovereignty and fish. She was an excellent teacher: affirming, gentle, firm, focused, structured, flexible, warm and supportive. These past two years she brought her classroom and convictions into the service of the Klamath Basin, advocating for balance, justice, and environmental health which, I believe, she felt was inextricably linked to the health and well being of the human community along these rivers. She will be sorely missed. We are fortunate that her presence here has imprinted many of us with the simple truth and elegance of the interdependence of flora, fauna, fish, family, and fealty to fairness. We will continue that work and be emboldened by her memory. Many blessings on your journey, Ronda, and much love to your family, especially your mother, Donna, who I know must be missing you terribly.
Peace,
Kristi
Linda Saxon
July 26, 2003
I am so proud of Rondas' accomplishments and to think that she was even continuing school to become an administrator. Your loss is great and the community's loss is great. She will be deeply missed. Linda Saxon
Bishop Rivas
July 26, 2003
Bishop Rivas
Nadine S Russ
July 26, 2003
Rhonda's untimely death is not just a great loss for her children, family and friends.
It is a great loss for the Indian Community and the Educational
Environment as well.
Donna; as a mother myself, I cannot imagine the awful pain you are going through, May the great spirit
forever hold you in the hallow of his hand and may all of your wonderful memories and her photographs help ease this awful pain for you.
Georgie& Harmon, Oh God, this is just awful and as your cousin I want you to know that I am feeling for you and you are in my prayers, I know that there isn't anything that I can say to make you feel any better, I love you and may all of your memories help and give you strength.
Rhonda's Babies; Your Mother loves you with all of her heart and soul
and may all of your wonderful memories of your beloved mom give you the peace and strength to carry on. Your beloved mom is watching over all of you and she will always be by your sides.
Love & Peace Nadine
Emily Gibson
July 26, 2003
Ronda and I started our journeys towards teaching at the same time, completing our undergraduate and credentialing at HSU. I always gravitated towards working with Ronda on projects and assignments, and whenever I look back on my time at HSU, I think of her. We often ended up attending the same professional development workshops over the last twelve years, and I always enjoyed catching up on what we were doing in education. And recently, we both were working on our MA's at HSU, and I found again the enjoyment of working with Ronda and sharing our teaching experiences and perspectives. I appreciate her quiet seriousness of purpose, her dedication to her community and family, and her love of teaching and learning. There is a hole in my heart today. My thoughts are with Ronda’s family, community, and students.
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