Carolyn P. Marsh

Carolyn P. Marsh, 81, of Sanford, entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior on May 1, 2026.

 Born on December 22, 1944, Carolyn was the beloved daughter of the late Reverend Bill Pickett and Pauline C. Pickett of Hampton. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Neil Pickett.

 From an early age, Carolyn distinguished herself through her intellect, talent, and determination. She graduated near the top of her class from Hampton High School in Hampton Roads, Virginia, where she sang in the school choir and played the organ for her father’s church.  

Carolyn attended Carson–Newman University, where she met the love of her life, Randy Marsh, on the very first day of school. Randy was introduced by Randy’s father, Bill Marsh, the two began a lifelong love story that would span 63 years. Carolyn earned her bachelor’s degree in education and music while singing in the university choir. Known for her elegance and style, she was voted “Best Dressed” during college and was even featured in Vogue magazine.

After graduation, Carolyn married her college sweetheart, Randy, and the couple settled in Alexandria, where she began her teaching career. Together they raised two children, Kim and David. Carolyn later pursued her passion for music by teaching piano lessons from her home.

As the years passed, Carolyn and Randy moved to Texas, where her reputation as a gifted piano teacher quickly grew. In response to the increasing demand, they founded the Master’s Touch School of Music and Performing Arts in Grapevine. Their daughter, Kim, worked alongside them as the school’s business manager. Under Carolyn and Randy’s leadership, the school flourished to serve more than a thousand students with a staff of 30 teachers. After many successful years, Carolyn retired and sold the business to a longtime director who had faithfully served the school for a decade.

In retirement, Carolyn and Randy moved to Sanford, North Carolina, to be closer to their son David and his family.

Throughout her life, Carolyn faithfully served the Lord in many capacities within her church. She played the piano and organ, her husband was the church choir director and Carolyn was the organist and pianist. She served on various committees. Sang in the choir. She  faithfully fulfilled the role of deacon. She led a "Ruth Fellowship" women’s ministry in her home. Her deep and abiding faith guided every aspect of her life.

Carolyn treasured time spent with family. She loved traveling with Randy, especially visiting their son’s beach house and mountain cabin, and cherished trips back to Texas to spend time with her daughter and family. Some of her happiest moments were gathered around the piano, singing with those she loved most.

 She was deeply proud of her children, their spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Carolyn is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Randy Marsh; daughter, Kim Marsh-Eaddy and husband Blaine Eaddy; son, David Marsh and wife Alecia Marsh; grandchildren, Kaitlyn Cotterell and husband Ollie, Claire Stieferman and husband Joseph, J.D. Marsh, Jackson Eaddy, and William Eaddy; and great-grandchildren, Ava, Eleanor, Joey, George, Jameson, Gus, DL., and Rosie Kate.

 A woman of grace, kindness, and eloquent beauty, Carolyn lived a life marked by faith, love, and devotion to others. She found joy in God’s blessings and strength in her unwavering trust in Him. Her legacy of love, music, and faith will continue to live on in all who knew her.

 Her memorial service a "Celebration of her Life" will be held Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Jonesboro Heights Baptist Church. Reception to follow in the Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers please feel free to donate to your Church or favorite charity.

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