Thomas Phillip Marion

Thomas Phillip Marion, Sr. 84, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2023, at his home in Columbus, Georgia.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 AM Wednesday, September 20, 2023 at First Baptist Church of Columbus with Dr. Jimmy Elder officiating.  A private family interment will be held at Parkhill cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour before the service time at the church.

Born on March 14, 1939, in Opelika, Alabama, Phillip was the beloved son of the late Catherine Poore Marion Hadaway and Walter Pate Marion, and cherished brother to the late Myra Marion Folmar, Sue Marion Amos Young, and Fred Marion. He was the devoted husband to the late Beverly Jones Marion, who was the love of his life.

Survivors include his daughters, Beth Marion Hamric (Todd) of Dadeville, AL, Jan Marion Rhodes (Billy) of Columbus, GA, son Phil Marion of Auburn, AL., five grandchildren, Emily Rhodes Avera (Jordan), Phillip Hamric, Andrew Hamric (Shannon), Elaine Rhodes, Mari Hart Hamric, sister Barbara Hadaway Turner, several nieces, nephews and other family members.

Phillip's education began at West Point High School where he discovered his passion for football, earning the title of "Best All Around" player in 1956. With his love for sports and academics, he furthered his education at Gordon Military College where he served as an offensive guard for the football team for two years.  He was a boarding cadet as a freshman. Phillip's ambition led him to Troy University where he earned a degree in Physical Education. His education culminated at Georgia State University as he commuted while at home with his wife and three children.  He secured a Masters degree in Administration.

Phillip worked at a gas station in West Point.  He was hanging out one afternoon in the downtown area when he spotted Beverly, got her number and they began to date.  She became his wife when they were united in marriage on July 11, 1964. Phillip's career was a testament to his dedication and passion for sports and education. His teaching and coaching began at West Point High School, where he served as the offensive line coach for five years under Georgia Hall of Famer, Carlton Lewis.  In 1970, he moved his family to Columbus where he accepted a position at Kendrick High School under head coach Art Williams.  He moved to Baker High School in 1974, where he coached the offensive line and was the head coach for the football team and track team.  Phillip's career furthered at Hardaway High School in 1978, where he coached the football team's offensive line. In this same year, he led the wrestling team to become the Bi City Wrestling Champs.  Despite never having coached wrestling before, he was named Coach of the Year. In 1980, the wrestling team won a first-place finish in an area tournament.  He also coached the Hawks to a fifth-place finish in an area tournament.  Phillip was named Coach of the Year for 1980. After a fulfilling career, Phillip retired from Hardaway High School, leaving a lasting legacy in the Muscogee County School District.

Phillip's life off the field was equally enriching. He was a very humble man with strong principles. He believed in always doing what was right, living by honesty and integrity.  He always said, “There is still good in this world, you just have to look around and find it”.  He was a family man at heart and was instrumental in orchestrating the Poore Cousin Family Reunion after years of it taking place in Barnesville, GA. These reunions allowed family members to create beautiful memories and strengthen their bonds, a testament to Phillip's love for his family and his belief in the importance of togetherness. He had a deep love for his family heritage.

He will be dearly missed by his family. Phillip lived by dedicating his life to the service of others, both on the field and off. His commitment to education, his passion for sports, and his love for his family will forever be remembered. His life was a testament to his strength, determination, unwavering spirit and a heart for Jesus Christ. Phillip's legacy will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him. His life story serves as an inspiration to strive for excellence, to cherish family, and to live life with passion and dedication. As we remember Phillip, we celebrate a life well-lived and honor a man well-loved.

In lieu of flowers, the family request contributions be made to Columbus Hospice 7020 Moon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907 or First Baptist Church of Columbus, 212 12th Street Columbus, Georgia 31901