Age 82, Luray, Va.
Edward Wayne “Eddie” Marston, 82, passed away peacefully at home in his sleep on March 4, 2026, after a long illness.
Eddie was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Jackson Marston Jr. and Dorothy Burner Marston.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Sharon Ann Gates Marston, whom he married on November 12, 1967. Together they built a life centered on faith, family and community.
He is also survived by his siblings, Judith Dale Marston Campbell (Charlie), Denver Lee Marston, and James B. Marston (Bonnie), as well as his sister-in-law, Teri Dee Gates Dorrough (Randy).
A proud and loving father, Eddie is survived by his children, Chris Anthony Marston (Cathy) and Karen Yvonne Marston. He was a cherished grandfather to Whitney Lea Marston, Brandon Micah Marston (Kendra), and Kaitlyn Marie Marston, and a proud great-grandfather to Khloe Noel Marston and Kameron Micah Marston.
Eddie honorably served his country as a veteran of the United States Army. Following his military service, he enjoyed a long and respected career with Merck & Co. in Elkton, retiring after many years of dedicated service.
A man who loved numbers and precision, Eddie found great joy in sports. He devoted countless hours to Luray High School’s Athletic Department, serving as a statistician, clock operator, and eventually as the beloved “Voice of the Bulldogs” as the public address announcer. His familiar voice became a treasured part of Friday nights and school events for generations of students, families and fans.
He was an avid fan of ACC basketball, the University of Virginia Cavaliers, the Washington Redskins, the Atlanta Braves, and the Washington Senators. His love of sports extended beyond fandom — he also served as a high school football official and spent many years ushering at University of Virginia athletic events.
Eddie enjoyed gardening and had a lifelong love of softball and bowling, playing both with competitive spirit and camaraderie. He loved hunting deer and squirrels with family and friends and was a founding member of the “Junior” Marston Hunt Club, where he served as an officer while he was still able to participate. He also took pride in butchering, providing for his family and sharing with others.
In quieter moments, Eddie enjoyed coin collecting and working jigsaw puzzles, hobbies that reflected his patience, attention to detail, and love of numbers.
He especially treasured time with friends, organizing fishing trips to the Chesapeake Bay for friends, coworkers, and fellow members of the Luray United Methodist Men — trips remembered for their laughter, fellowship and lasting memories.
Above all, Eddie was a family man. His steady presence, quiet strength, and faithful devotion leave a lasting legacy in the lives of those who knew and loved him.
A funeral service will be conducted at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, at the Bradley Funeral Home, with visitation one hour prior to the service, from 1 to 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Luray High School Athletic Department. Please include “EW Marston Memorial” in the memo line.
Though his voice is now silent, for many in Luray it will forever echo as the beloved “Voice of the Bulldogs.”
Be the first to comment