Alabama has lost a Christian witness, a bold American patriot, a difference-making firefighter and a 24-hour-a-day Good Samaritan.
James O. Marshall (Jim or Jimmy) from Mobile died peacefully in his sleep on December 27, 2024, at age 81.
If Jim Marshall saw someone on the side of the road or in town who appeared to need help, he would stop without hesitation or concern for his own safety. He often offered money in addition to getting the stranded person on their way.
One time, he stopped for a man who said he needed money for an automobile repair. He gave it to him. A bit later, he saw the same man and the same vehicle on the side of the road again. He stopped again. Before the man recognized him, he started into the same sales pitch for money. This time, Jim Marshall gave the man something more valuable: He shared Jesus Christ and the way to salvation.
In addition to sharing needed money and Jesus Christ, he also shared America. He kept with him America First type of literature, including "New American" magazine. He shared copies with hundreds over his lifetime. He supported the Mobile County Republican Party and the Common Sense Campaign.
He was also a strong supporter of police, fire and first responders.
Jim was a proud firefighter for the City of Mobile for 28 years and three days, retiring in 1993 as captain. Jim Marshall did not just put in the years. He put innovation and positive changes into his fire department.
He was the instigator of these programs:
CPR classes for the community at the fire station
Fire safety and education classes for thousands of Mobile area youths.
Restoration of old reserve fire trucks.
Blood pressure checks for senior citizens.
Open house at the station; 1,100 citizens showed up for his first open house.
Donation of a Dalmatian dog to be used in fire education classes.
Fire Department Explorer Scout program.
In death, he was as selfless as in life. His wish for no service has been honored. He asks that any memorial donations be made to his beloved John Birch Society, which he called "the original America First organization."
Jim' Zig' Zeigler writes about Alabama's people, places, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former Alabama Public Service Commissioner and State Auditor. You can reach him for comments at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com.
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