Dr. Katie Marshall, a respected educator whose career spanned more than five decades in higher education, passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at her home in Magnolia, Arkansas. She was 98 years old and was surrounded by her family at the time of her passing, according to her published obituary.
Remembered for her dedication to teaching, physical education, and student development, Dr. Marshall built a professional legacy that extended well beyond the classroom. Her work at Southern Arkansas University and her involvement in educational and community organizations reflected a lifelong commitment to learning and service.
A Life Shaped by Education
Katie Marshall was born on February 22, 1928, in Caledonia, Mississippi, to David Austin Grant and Ludie Adair Grant. Her early life laid the foundation for a career focused on education, physical activity, and helping others develop their abilities.
She pursued higher education in physical education, earning a bachelor’s degree from Mississippi State College for Women in Columbus, Mississippi. She later obtained a master’s degree in physical education from the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg and completed a Ph.D. at Texas Woman’s University, with a minor in dance and related arts.
Her academic journey prepared her for a career that combined teaching, movement education, recreation, and public service.
A Teaching Career Spanning More Than Five Decades
Dr. Marshall began her teaching career in Biloxi, Mississippi, where she taught physical education to junior and senior high school girls. Her professional experience also included work with the American Red Cross Aquatic School and movement education programs serving children with special needs.
She later joined the faculty of Southern State College, now Southern Arkansas University, in 1954. Over the following decades, she contributed to the institution through teaching, coaching, student activities, and committee service.
Her responsibilities included involvement with the Physical Education Club, the Women’s Recreation Association, and intramural athletics. She also worked as a water safety instructor and trainer through the Columbia County chapter of the American Red Cross.
Dr. Marshall retired in 1999 after a remarkable 54 years of service as a professor in the university’s Health, Kinesiology and Recreation department. Her long tenure reflected a sustained commitment to education and the development of students.
Professional Service Beyond the Classroom
Her influence extended into educational associations and community initiatives. Dr. Marshall was affiliated with organizations supporting physical education, recreation, women’s education, and children with special needs.
She also served as a consultant for movement education programs connected with Magnolia Public Schools and West Side Kindergarten. Earlier in her career, she worked as a counselor at Girl Scout camps, adding another dimension to her experience in youth development.
These varied roles demonstrated the breadth of her professional interests. Rather than limiting her work to formal classroom instruction, she contributed to programs that encouraged physical well-being, safe recreation, and educational access.
Personal Interests and Faith
Outside her professional life, Dr. Marshall enjoyed birdwatching, swimming, and outdoor activities. Her obituary also identifies her as a member of Central Baptist Church in Magnolia.
Her life combined academic achievement with interests and commitments that connected her to her community. The obituary’s account of her career and personal interests provides a picture of someone whose work and service remained closely linked to education and everyday life.
Family and Loved Ones
Dr. Marshall was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Don Marshall, and her son, Grant Marshall.
She is survived by her daughter, Donna Sanders of Magnolia; granddaughters Rachel Brown and Katie Murphy; and several great-grandchildren, along with other relatives, nieces, and nephews.
Her family also expressed gratitude to the hospice teams and caregivers who supported Katie and her loved ones during her final period of life.
Funeral Arrangements and Memorial Tributes
According to the published obituary, visitation was scheduled for Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Lewis Funeral Home in Magnolia, Arkansas. A funeral service followed at the funeral home, with burial afterward at Magnolia Memorial Park Cemetery.
The family suggested that people wishing to honor her memory could consider supporting Central Baptist Church or the Dr. Katie Grant Marshall Scholarship Endowment.
These memorial options reflect the educational and community connections that remained important throughout her life.
Dr. Katie Marshall’s Legacy
Dr. Katie Marshall’s life was defined by a long-standing dedication to education, physical development, and service. Her 54 years at Southern Arkansas University represent a significant chapter in the institution’s history, while her work with schools, community programs, and professional associations broadened her contributions beyond campus.
Her story is also a reminder of the lasting influence educators can have through decades of teaching, mentorship, and community involvement. As family, former colleagues, students, and others remember her, her professional achievements and commitment to education remain central to her legacy.
Disclaimer
This article is based on the published obituary for Dr. Katie Marshall of Magnolia, Arkansas. It summarizes reported biographical details, career achievements, family information, and funeral arrangements. Readers should consult the family’s official obituary or the funeral home for authoritative information or corrections.