DURHAM – Marcus Alexander Garriss, 89, of Durham died Tuesday, February 4, 2014 at Duke Regional Hospital following a brief illness.
Born in Anson County, Marcus was the son of the late Daniel Franklin Garriss and Effie Moore Garriss. He was educated in Wadesboro Schools. Marcus served in the U.S. Army Engineers during World War II for 32 months in the United States, Guadalcanal, Philippines, and Japan. He had achieved rank of Batallion Personnel Sergeant Major at time of honorable discharge in 1946.
Marcus returned to Duke University in 1946 and graduated in 1949 with a B.A. degree in accounting.
He was employed by The American Tobacco Company in Durham in the accounting office for 30 years, retiring in 1979.
Marcus was a member of Hillsborough Presbyterian Church where he served as Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and Elder for many years.
Marcus was preceded in death by his wife, Nina Woods Garriss and brother, William Philip Garriss.
Surviving are his sister-in-law, Phyllis Garriss, his nephew, Daniel Garriss and wife, Sue, his nephew, Roy Woods and wife, Carolyn, his niece, Meredith Cooper and husband, Pell, and daughter, Marelle, and his niece, Margaret Garriss.
Funeral Services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Friday, February 7, 2014 at Hillsborough Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Dr. Robert Brizendine officiating. Burial will follow in Hillsborough City Cemetery with military honors.
Friends may visit prior to the service beginning at 1:30 p.m. at Hillsborough Presbyterian Church.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hillsborough Presbyterian Church, 102 W. Tryon St. Hillsborough, NC 27278
The Garriss family is under the care of Hall-Wynne Funeral Service. Online condolences www.hallwynne.com. Select obituaries.
Betsy Nutting
February 6, 2014 at 12:00 amI am so sorry to hear of your loss however for Marcus it sounds like he is heavenbound to Glory, Glory, Glory on a fast plane!!! Amen!!!!!
Hillman Currin
February 9, 2014 at 12:00 amI am so sorry to hear of Marks passing. I knew he and Nina from my years of working in the office at The American Tobacco Co. There was never a more perfect pair. Their volunteer work was a blessing for the Durham community. My prayers to the family.