Marvin Poythress, 78, passed away Saturday May 11, 2008 after several years of declining health. A Chapel Hill native, Marvin was the son of the late Ila and Furman Poythress. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 50 years, Ann Phelps Poythress, and by his brothers Robert Poythress and Durrell Poythress.
Marvin graduated from the old Chapel Hill High School, located at that time on Franklin St. Though big in stature, he had a soft heart and was affectionately called “Teddy Bear†by his friends. As a lifelong active member of Damascus Church he served as treasurer and enjoyed singing in the choir. Marvin retired from UNC Hospitals after 33 years of service in 1983. After retirement, he continued working with UNC Athletics, where he began as a young man selling buckets of iced drinks up and down the bleachers. He then progressed from usher to supervising operations on Kenan Stadium’s southside. He enjoyed his many years working with basketball operations as well, especially enjoying the championship victories. After 50 years of working at Kenan Stadium, Marvin retired in 1999. The UNC Athletic Department established The Poythress Service Award presented to the volunteer staff member who most exemplifies Marvin’s work ethic, dedication and attitude. He loved his God, his family, his country and his Tar Heels.
Using his carpentry skills, he crafted not only functional furniture items used by his family, but also a truck camper as well as a pop-up type camper complete with canvas sides, giving his children many fond memories of family vacations. Marvin also enjoyed his time on the family farm, tending the cattle, grooming the fields and driving his tractor. He spent many a morning sharing coffee and biscuits with friends. Marvin and Ann (whom he met on a blind date on Halloween) spent their retirement years enjoying time with their five grandchildren, attending country and gospel music concerts and traveling. One of their most memorable trips was to the Holy Land. Marvin also enjoyed the many years he served on the Piedmont Electric Membership Corporation board of directors and the many friends he made there. He served his country in the U.S. Army and enjoyed his friends at American Legion functions, especially dancing.
He is survived by his son, David Poythress and wife, Tricia; daughter, Sharon P. House and husband, Durward all of Chapel Hill; and daughter, Peggy P. Utley and husband, Dale of Garner. Grandchildren are Jordan Poythress, Wesley House and wife, Kim, Caroline House, Kevin Utley and Kaitlyn Utley. He is also survived by nieces, nephews and his special friend Maxine Lacy of Sanford.
A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday May 14 at Damascus Church. Visitation is at Walkers Funeral Home, 120 West Franklin St in Chapel Hill on Tuesday from 7 to 9 p.m., and other times at Marvin’s residence.
Flowers are welcome, but memorial donations can be made to the Damascus Church Cemetery Fund and can be sent to Damascus Church 522 Damascus Ch Rd Chapel Hill NC 27516 or to the charity of one’s choice.
The family wishes to express their appreciation to the staff of Britthaven for the care they gave Marvin.
Arrangements by Walker’s Funeral Home, 120 W. Franklin Street Chapel Hill, NC 27516.
Condolences may be sent to www.walkersfuneralservice.com