A legacy is a reflection of the values, beliefs, and contributions someone leaves behind, whether through their actions, their achievements, or the way they inspire others. It has less to do with material wealth and more to do with a life of purpose and fulfillment. A strong legacy can shape communities, inspire change, and create a foundation for those who come after—ensuring that the essence of who you are continues to resonate and guide others after you are gone.
Our hope is that you will be inspired by the legacies that these families will share through their stories here. What legacy will you leave?
For Claude and Nancy Marshall, the legacy they hope to leave is rooted in Christ. They joyfully walk the path God has set for them, taking the good and the bad as part of a fulfilled and meaningful life. Their hard work, dedication, and care for others serve as a shining example for future generations of the Marshall family.
What core values do you hope to pass on to your loved ones?
Be true to God. Work hard. Treat others as you want to be treated. Help others as needed. Value your friends. Be an example to your children. Cherish your memories of family and friends. If you aren’t able to say something nice, don’t say it. Live your life so that others will want to be like you. Own your decisions. Work hard and earn your way. Don’t expect others to take care of you. Love your neighbor as yourself. Be a good steward with what you are given. Love your spouse and your family as Christ loved the church, which is rooted in self-sacrifice.
The one thing we are all given is time. The one thing everyone always wants more of is time. Be careful what you pursue and where you invest your time.
When have you felt you made a lasting impact on someone’s life?
A person who worked for me told me that the relationship we had made him what he is today. We had some tough decisions, but when done, we remained friends. I have also received five Boy Scout Mentor pins, presented by Eagle Scouts, and was told by one that I had made a positive impact on his life.
Moments like these remind us that time and engagement are two of the most important responsibilities of your life. Sometimes your job is to plant seeds, sometimes your job is to water the seeds, and once in a while you get to harvest the crop. All of it is important and what we as Christians are called to do.
It’s important to take time to reflect throughout your life, not just at the end. It is so easy to get caught up in the moment that we don’t take time to see the accomplishments and the presence of God in our lives. Looking back can also help us to be aware of opportunities we may have missed or things we could do better.
Reflecting on your challenges or setbacks, what key lessons have you learned, and how have they shaped you?
I had been selected as the acting head of the Information Management Office but was replaced by another when a new Colonel took over. I learned that he had selected a friend. I was negatively impacted but was reminded that I was called to serve those who were placed over me. After a year, this person went to the Colonel and recommended that I should have the position because he could not be effective.
I learned that you should always do your best, and in time, your efforts will be rewarded. I was reminded of how Christ instructed us to live. Make the best of your situation. Always do your best. Respect authority. Trust in God and be patient. His plans are the best, and we must learn to wait on His timing.
How do you want to be remembered by family and friends—professionally and personally?
Nancy and I always placed God first. We made it clear: Our family comes second. We loved our children very much and wanted them to have what we had and more. We loved each other and sometimes cried together. We have many memories and still have fun talking about them.
I hope Nancy and I are membered as people who loved God and family and as people who cared. Nancy and I both took our work seriously, and Nacy still volunteers at the hospital. We always did our best. And we had success.
Personally, we were devoted to God and to our family. As our children were going through school, we looked for ways to be engaged. And we met a lot of people along the way. When our kids left the house and moved away, we became more involved in our community. We made time for family and friends, but we also made time for our community. When people needed help, we always tried to do what we could.
What are the traditions you consider essential to preserve and pass on to future generations?
Sunday school parties. Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. Cookouts and smokers. Gardening and canning. Activities that bring people together. Opening your house to others, even though it is a lot of work and expense. Smoking food was a great opportunity to bring people together and to meet new people. Canning and making jams are ways to do nice things for people and to pass on essential traditions.
How do you encourage open conversations about values and morals within your family?
Being open and honest. Always trying to find the positive side. A good meal or dessert with limited distractions (no TV). We encouraged them to not be afraid to say they are wrong and to not lessen their beliefs to satisfy others. We depended on the love we have for each other to carry us through the hard times.
We had a dining room where conversation could be had. But there was always respect for others and also an understanding of what was expected. The dinner table required a level of dignity and respect. Not everything was tolerated. There were also conversations had during chores (like fence mending) or even over the phone in later years. These conversations were always done in love and respect. If those could not be maintained, the topic would be tabled for a later time.
Which stories from your past best illustrate the values you hold dear?
During a 25-mile benefit hike with my daughter’s softball team, our son (6 years old at the time) went with us. He didn’t last long. I carried him approximately 24 miles on my shoulders so he could still be a part of the walk.
For years, I would cook for a friend’s Super Bowl party, preparing the meat the night before, arriving early in the morning with my cooker, and cooking until the kick-off that evening. I met a lot of new and great people during those times. It was an opportunity to make friends and have great conversations.
Nancy routinely makes divinity candy at Christmas time to give to family and friends. She will work tirelessly for a week or more making sure she has some for everyone. And she routinely responds to requests from ladies to teach them how to make strawberry or peach freezer jam.
As for me, I have had several Eagle Scouts tell me that the board of review that we put them through taught them how to prepare for, and deal with, difficult and stressful situations. We always used these sessions as a teaching and coaching opportunity; even if they failed, we made sure they knew what was expected and how they could succeed.
In what ways do you hope the life you’ve lived will influence others?
You agree to disagree. Each is entitled to their own opinion. The reason for discussion is to arrive at a conclusion, which should be accepted by each person. Show respect and love to everyone. We hope it will encourage those around us. Life has its peaks and valleys. Life is not about what you accumulate, but what you do with your time. Build a Christ-centered life. Don’t hide away. Don’t let setbacks win. Don’t hold grudges. Love, live, and care.
What advice do you have for future generations about living a meaningful life?
Respect and love God. Work hard, be cheerful, and encourage those around you. We are children of God. Share with others and be eager to help. Build your life around pursuing God and worshipping Him daily. Find a spouse to love and raise a family with in a way that honors God. Make time for friends and fellowship. Encourage others. Be a good steward. Serve others. Never miss an opportunity to do something good.
When you think about the legacy you wish to leave behind, what is the most important gift or lesson you hope to pass on to your family?
Love Jesus and love like Jesus. Learn to take the bad times with the good times. Work hard. Be willing to forgive and forget. Enjoy life. The gift of salvation is through Jesus Christ.
We want our family to truly know God. Everything else will fall into place from there. It may not always be easy, but it can be done with confidence and peace. And it will ensure that we will be together again.
