MARBRAY, RICHARD J. (AGE 92) OF ACCOKEEK, MD

Richard Jeremiah Marbray of Accokeek, Maryland departed this life on Tuesday, April 14, 2015 at Hospice of the Chesapeake, Mandrin Inpatient Care Center, Harwood, Maryland. He was born in Fenwick, Maryland to the late Eliza Hungerford Marbray and Richard Marbray, Sr., who preceded him in death a month before he was born. His mother later married Reverend John Morton.

Richard held a unique place in the Marbray family strong bond. He was the eighth child of nine children. Among his many attributes were his commitment of kindness and a loving jovial spirit. Serving humanity was one of the most beautiful and rewarding principles of his life. This is a day of spiritual triumph, for he has completed his journey along the highways and byways of life. Traveling the rough spots and guided by the Captain of his destiny the "Eternal Father." The gates of heaven opened wide when Richard crossed over to meet his Lord and Savior.

He attended Pomonkey Elementary and High School where he met his wife, the former Marion Veronica Parker, who transitioned to eternal life on February 13, 2015. From this union three lovely daughters were born; LaVerne, Phyllis and Yvonne. He was a very good provider and stood loyally by his wife, Marion, in caring for her parents. Richard was Metropolitan's first Sunday School bus driver. He sang in the Men's Choir, served as President of the United Methodist Men, President of the Board of Trustees and held other numerous roles in the church.

Richard served in the Navy for three years in Oakland, California. He was employed by the Naval Powder Factory (now known as Naval Surface Warfare Center) in Indian Head, Maryland. He transferred to Andrews Air Force Base where he retired with 33 years of service. After his retirement, he enjoyed working several years for Thornton Funeral Home where he was loved and respected.

Richard served as Worshipful Master (Bee Hive) Lodge No. 66 F. & A.M. State of Maryland from 1968 to 1969. He joined Corinthian Chapter No. 20, Holy Royal Arch Mason and P.H.A. in December 1963 and served as Most Excellent High Priest (Corinthian) from 1969 through 1970. He was also a member of Randolph Furey Post 170 of American Legion.

He leaves to cherish his memory his three daughters, LaVerne Foster (Charles), Phyllis Knight (Clarence) and Yvonne Marbray; Dana Foster (granddaughter), Brian Foster (grandson), two adopted sons, Greg Cummings (Marilyn) and Samuel Taylor and a host of other relatives and friends.

His viewing will be held from 9am until time of service 11am on Saturday, April 25, 2015 at the Metropolitan United Methodist Church, 3385 Metropolitan Church Road, Indian Head, MD 20640 Interment Wednesday, April 29, 2015, 1:45pm, Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham, MD.

Arrangements entrusted to Thornton Funeral Home, P.A., 3439 Livingston Road, Indian Head, MD 20640.