Obituary of Richard J. Marsh, Sr.

Richard J. Marsh, 86, of Gilbert, SC, passed away May 29, 2021.  Born on November 3, 1934, in Columbia, SC, he was the son of his late parents, James and MaeBee Marsh.

Richard was a residential builder/developer and entrepreneur.  After graduating University High School, he worked for banks and later for a residential builder.  He served in the Air National Guard Reserves and the National Guard Reserves.

In 1964, he formed his corporation, R.J. Marsh, Inc.  He was responsible for building over 1000 quality homes in Whitehall, Woodland Hills, St. Andrews Area and Irmo.  He developed Hillcreek, Sheffield and Palmerston North Subdivisions, and built many commercial buildings with the most talented subcontractors.

Richard had a full and wonderful life with many accomplishments. He enjoyed over 57 years of “going to the office,” hosting family reunions, traveling, skiing, scuba diving, sailing and Clemson football games.  He enjoyed playing music with his family and could play the guitar and fiddle.  He earned his pilot license from his son-in-law and became an avid pilot at the age of 60.

Richard is survived by his former wife, Sandra H. Marsh; son Richard (Rick) J. Marsh, Jr.; daughter Tami Marsh Bradley, and son-in-law Jerry W. Bradley; granddaughters Heather Bradley, Jordan Bradley Forbis (Shawn), and Emily Hope Bradley.  He also leaves behind a sister Dorothy Croft, brother L.W. (Buck) Marsh (Rebecca); sister-in-law Avril Carlisle, stepson Dr. Fort Jones (Suzanne): Carly, Malcolm, Sara Gray; many nieces, nephews, and cousins that will miss him.

He was preceded in death by wife, Adrienne J. Marsh; a son, Donald E. Marsh; and brother, Jimmy L. Marsh.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 10, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at Thompson Funeral Home, 4720 Augusta Road, Lexington, SC. The family will receive friends prior to the service at Thompson Funeral Home from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.  Brett DeYoung will officiate the service.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to St. Jude Hospital or a charity of your choice.