Velma Jacqueline Marshall

Velma Jacqueline “Jackie” Marshall, 92, of La Junta passed away on December 26, 2022, at the Arkansas Valley Regional Medical Center. She was born on January 7, 1930, to Claude L. and Margaret Lucille (Parker) Hamilton.

Her father worked for the Post Office and the family lived in several states before settling in Rocky Ford where she graduated with the class of 1947. Her mother and stepmother, Katherine, both died when she was young. Her father then married Merle Gibson and together they raised their family.

Jackie met Jack Marshall in Rocky Ford. They married on April 1, 1948. After their first child, Lynn was born they moved to Boulder where Jack finished his education at CU. Jackie worked part-time at a creamery and The Daily Camera. Their landlords, John and Faye Warner took care of Lynn while Jackie worked, and they became like family and kept in touch the rest of the Warners’ lives.

Jackie and Jack moved to La Junta where they raised their five children. She was involved with Girl Scouts, 4-H and she and Jack supported their children’s interest in sports and other activities. Family vacations were enjoyed by all.

While her children were in elementary school, Jackie worked as Park School secretary. She sold ads for the Arkansas Valley Journal and at the age of 42 she became licensed to sell real estate eventually becoming a broker associate. She spent the bulk of her career working for Norm Murphy and Associates which she dearly loved, retiring at the age of 79. She experienced great enjoyment volunteering with the hospital auxiliary. She was involved in the United Methodist Church where she directed the youth choir for several years instilling an appreciation for beautiful music in her own children as well as many others. Her children are forever grateful.

She survived by her brother, Richard Hamilton; children, Lynn (Ted) Martin of Colorado Springs; Leslie McKenzie of La Junta; Sandy (Jerry) Munson of La Junta; John Smith Marshall, III of Colorado Springs and Suzanne Marshall of La Junta; six grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Jack; siblings, Royce, C.L., Bill, Bette Mellinger, Larry and Claudette Lindsay.

As per Jackie’s request cremation has taken place and a graveside service will be held for her and Jack at Ft. Lyon National Cemetery at a later date.

Those wishing to do so may make memorial contributions to the Associated Charities, 517 Colorado Ave., La Junta, CO, 81050 or charity of your choice direct or through the funeral home.

Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.