May 23, 2026, 79, Grantham – James Marshall Minchew, 79, of Wayne County, North Carolina, passed away on Saturday, May 23, 2026, peacefully surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and dedication to his community.
Born in Wayne County in 1947 to the late Ollie and Rosa Lee Taylor Minchew, Marshall was a proud son of eastern North Carolina whose life was marked by service to others. He attended Goldsboro High School and Southern Wayne High School before answering the call to serve his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. As a member of the distinguished 1st Cavalry medical evacuation unit, he served honorably with courage and compassion during a pivotal time in our nation’s history.
Following his military service, Marshall continued his lifelong commitment to public service as a deputy with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office. His dedication to justice and the people of Wayne County led to a respected career in the judicial system, where he served as a Magistrate Judge before being elected to two terms as Wayne County Clerk of Superior Court. Throughout his years in public office, Marshall was known for his integrity, fairness, and genuine care for the people he served.
Above all, Marshall was a devoted Christian man whose faith guided his life. A faithful member of Jordans Chapel Baptist Church, he lived out his beliefs through kindness, generosity, and a sincere love for others. Marshall never met a stranger and found joy in conversations with people from all walks of life. Whether sharing stories, catching up on local happenings, or spending time at the Grantham Barber Shop keeping up with community news, he treasured the relationships he built over the years.
Marshall was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his beloved wife, Gail Porter Minchew; his sons, Jay Minchew (Cindy), Jeff Minchew (Lynn), and Bill Minchew; grandchildren, Ashley Deal (Joseph), Mackenzie Batchelor (Jackson), and Mason Minchew (Sierra), Blake Price (Marie) and John Murphy; stepsons, Porter Jones (Jenny) and Marshall Jones; step-grandsons, Waylon and Henry Jones; along with many extended family members, dear friends, and members of the community who were touched by his life.
Marshall’s family finds comfort in knowing that his life was one of purpose, service, and unwavering faith. They are deeply grateful for the many years he dedicated to serving his country, his state, and his county, and for the countless ways he enriched the lives of those around him. He will be greatly missed but lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A celebration of Marshall’s life will be held on Thursday, May 28, at Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home in Dudley. Visitation will begin at 12:45 p.m., with funeral services following at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel. Burial will follow at Wayne Memorial Park.
Flowers are welcome or memorial gifts may be directed to Jordans Chapel Baptist Church Blessing Box Ministry, 5734 US 13 South, Mount Olive, NC 28365 or to Partnership 4 Recovery www.partnership4recovery.com
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Minchew Family. Condolences may be directed to the family at www.shumate-faulk.com
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