Lt Col. (Retired) John Reed Marsh

Lieutenant Colonel Retired John Reed Marsh, age 74 of Todd, North Carolina passed away on Monday, June 9, 2025 at his home. Lt. Col. Marsh was born on February 15, 1951 in Winona, Minnesota to the late Kenneth LeRoy and Helen Louise Lewis Marsh. In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by a brother, Ward Lewis Marsh.

Lt. Col. Marsh was a dedicated soldier, educator, and adventurer whose life was marked by service, leadership, and a deep love for his family and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Born and raised in Johnson City, Tennessee, John graduated from Science Hill High School in 1969. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from East Tennessee State University in 1974. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in Field Artillery, launching a distinguished 20-year career in the United States Army. His military service took him across the globe, with assignments in Germany, Greece, and various locations throughout the United States. In 1991, he furthered his education by earning a master’s degree from the University of Alabama.

Lt. Col. Marsh continued his commitment to service and leadership with Appalachian State University ROTC. After 2 years Lt. Col. Marsh retired from active duty and made his home in the Blue Ridge Mountains, a place he came to cherish deeply.

For two more decades, he invested in the lives of young people as the leader of the JROTC programs at Beaver Creek High School and Ashe County High School. His guidance and mentorship left a lasting impact on countless students who learned discipline, respect, and patriotism under his command.

Outside the classroom and away from duty, John embraced life with a sense of adventure. 

He loved riding his motorcycles, especially his Honda Gold Wing when traveling, with his beloved wife Jackie always riding close behind. Together, they explored the open road, traveling in their RV, and spent peaceful winters fishing along the coast.

Lt. Col. Marsh is survived by his wife of 53 years Jackie Marsh, one sister, Marijane Wunderman of Missouri, two nieces and three nephews.

Lt. Col. John Marsh’s legacy is one of service, devotion, and joy in life’s journey. 

He will be remembered by all who knew him for his steady leadership, generous spirit, and the deep love he shared with his family and community.

A Military Honors Service for Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) John Reed Marsh will be held on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Ashelawn Memorial Chapel. The honors will be conducted by former members of his JROTC battalion in tribute to his dedicated service and lasting impact on his students and community. The family will receive friends following the service.

Interment with military rites will be held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Mountain Home National Cemetery in Johnson City, TN.

The family respectfully requests no food please. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Ashe County High School JROTC, 184 Campus Drive, West Jefferson, NC 28694. 

If not inclined to donate, please share with someone in need, offer a smile or a kind word, perform a good deed—and always, thank a veteran.