Ralph Thomas Marshall, 88

POQUOSON, Va. - Ralph Thomas Marshall, 88, a native of Smith Island, Md., and Peninsula area resident since 1961, passed away Thursday, Sept. 6, 2007.

Mr. Marshall began a career in seafood as captain of his own oyster buy boat in Maryland; was a previous owner of Watkins-Marshall Seafood in Poquoson; and later was co-founder of Hampton Roads Seafoods, LTD in Hampton. He was a World War II Army Air Corps veteran where he served as a turret gun instructor. He was a member of Tabernacle United Methodist Church, Poquoson, and loved boating and fishing.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Margaret Thompson Marshall; his daughter, Mary Virginia Marshall Saulman and husband, Ronnie of Poquoson; his son, John G. Marshall and wife, Vivian of Poquoson; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Mr. Marshall was preceded in death by his parents, Edith and Arthur Marshall, and sisters, Virginia M. Bradshaw, Rosalee M. Wise, and Idella M. Weatherlow.

Funeral services were held Monday at Tabernacle United Methodist Church. The Rev. Bill Wash officiated. Burial followed at Hampton Memorial Gardens, Hampton.

Memorial contributions may be made to Tabernacle United Methodist Church, 831 Poquoson Ave., or Poquoson Rescue Squad, 830 Poquoson Ave., both in Poquoson, VA 23662.

Arrangements were handled by Claytor Rollins Funeral Home.