Vella Marshall

Vella Joyner Marshall, 85, passed away in Gainesville, FL, on October 12, 2023. She was born on March 25, 1938, in Mullens, West Virginia, to Bertha and Vernon Blevins. Vella was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted friend to many.

Vella had a remarkable career as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) for over 41 years. She dedicated 29 years of her career to St. Luke's Cataract and Laser Institute in Tarpon Springs, FL. Vella's nursing skills were not limited to her professional work; she also used them during mission trips around the world and as a Parish Nurse, providing care to those in need. Her commitment to her profession and her patients was truly commendable.

Outside of her work, Vella had a vibrant personality and a wide range of interests. She was a music enthusiast and enjoyed singing and dancing. Vella had a gift of hospitality and a generous spirit that made her a beloved friend. Vella also had a wonderful sense of humor, which brought joy to those around her.

Vella was a woman of faith and found great fulfillment in her involvement in church activities. She served on mission trips, acted as a Parish Nurse, and led Bible Studies and small groups in her home. Her dedication to her church community was a testament to her deep-rooted faith.

Family was of utmost importance to Vella. She is survived by her two daughters, Lori Guidry (Bobby) and Sherri Douthat, as well as her grandchildren, David Shrader (Elisha), John Shrader (Natalie), and Callie Compton (Trevor). Vella also leaves behind six great-grandchildren, Ethan, Elsie, Daniel, JJ, Jordyn, and Jack. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bertha and Vernon Blevins, and her husband, Robert Marshall. Vella will be deeply missed by her loving cousins, nieces, and nephew.

Vella's educational journey began at Spanishburg High School in Spanishburg, WV. She then pursued her passion for nursing, graduating from the Jefferson School of Nursing in Roanoke, VA, and the Bluefield Sanitarium Anesthesia School in Bluefield, WV. She furthered her education with a Bachelor's Degree from Bluefield State College in Bluefield, WV.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date in the West Virginia mountains, the place Vella called home.

Vella's legacy of love, kindness, and service will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know her.