Willie C. Marshall was born in Albany, Georgia on August 10, 1940.  He was the beloved son of the late Amos Marshall and Lucille Bell. During the early years of his life, he was nurtured and cared for under the guiding hands of his loving aunt, Beulah Wallace, who taught him the importance of living a life of integrity, strong character, and loving kindness.

He received his formal education in the Dougherty County School System, graduating from Monroe High School.  Throughout school, Willie was a very inquisitive and perceptive young man with a zeal for learning; gained valuable life skills; and actively participated in numerous student-centered activities and events.

At a very young age, he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior.  Over the years, he remained steadfast and prayerful as he journeyed through life and never ceased to give God the glory and praise for all things—great and small.

Buddy, as he was endearingly called by many, had a great appreciation for stylish footwear and seized every opportunity to cultivate his passion.  His lengthy career in the footwear industry spanned more than five decades.  Throughout his career at Burton's, Aaron's, and Carmen's Fine Footwear, Buddy was recognized and respected as a top salesman in his industry.  His name was synonymous with footwear—his life was footwear retail.  Hundreds of men and women bought shoes from him; and his abundant knowledge of the art of selling impacted many, many lives.  Buddy will be remembered for his dedication; integrity; professionalism; and the many warm relationships he fostered with his clientele, colleagues, and other retailers with whom he worked.

Not only was Buddy a phenomenal salesman, he was also a devoted nephew who diligently and untiringly cared for his cherished Aunt Beulah until her demise.  Sharing time with family and friends was paramount in his life and brought him much joy.  He had a kind heart, a very generous spirit, and he took  great pride in using his God-given talents to help others.  The words penned by the songwriter, "If I can help somebody as I travel along…..then my living shall not be in vain," truly exemplifies his life.  In his leisure, he enjoyed cooking and home decorating.

On January 30, 2024, Buddy transitioned from this earthly life at Pruitt Health Nursing Home.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by Beulah Wallace, Amos Marshall, Jr., and Amos Williams.

Loving memories will forever be cherished by his sister, Charlie Mae Marshall of Fort Lauderdale, FL; nieces and nephews, Ricky (Stephanie) Wallace, Steven Wallace, Sherry Bates, Monica Williams, Travis Williams, Roderick (Kaotris) Wallace, Steve (Lenora) Wallace, Anthony Wallace, Ricky Wallace, Jr., Breanna Wallace, and Malcom Wallace; a very special friend, Ann Range of Albany, GA; and a host of cousins, extended family, former colleagues, and friends.