Marvin James Atwood Jr.

Marvin James Atwood Jr., age 59 passed away on Saturday June 24, 2017.  He was born to Marvin James Atwood Sr. and Julia Katherine Harvell  on July 3, 1957       

Marvin was a blessing to all who knew him. He was deemed "Starvin Marvin" years back because of his favorite past times of receiving joy by feeding others. No one would ever be "starvin" when Marvin was around! His extraordinary cooking skills and his growth as a business man and entrepreneur, led him to open the infamous "Starvin Marvin's in 2010.  Feeding the less fortunate or noticing a couple on their first date all dressed up and buying them a drink, was something that Marvin would do out of his love of people. He loved being around people and animals. His best buddy, Debo, would go everywhere with him, even riding to the restaurant daily where he would stay in the air conditioning while his caretaker would be blessing the humans he encountered. Marvin was a true humanitarian who never met a stranger and became friends with all who crossed his path. 

Marvin was married to his beloved wife, Deborah, for 38 wonderful years. They met at the lake when Deborah was 14 years old. She was walking with her friend when Marvin and his buddy drove by them in his pickup truck.  Being a fun-loving kid, he drove by her slowly and tried to swat her on the bottom. Instead of a light tap, this swat drove Deborah straight into the ditch covering her with mud. At that point, Marvin told his buddy, " I am going to marry that girl one day!".  His prediction came true when they shared nuptials years later and created a fulfilling life together with children and then grandchildren. Marvin's grandchildren called him Papa and he loved them dearly.  He was a protector for all who knew him and showed his kindness and love of children through the contributions he made to the organizations that helped the abused/neglected children in our community. Marvin was an avid golfer and being on the golf course was a favorite past time. Breeding and raising horses was a love that he and Deborah shared. Delta Downs was a one of the venues one could find Marvin and Deborah attending to watch those precious thoroughbreds race. Marvin will be greatly missed by all that had the pleasure of knowing him but his legacy of kindness will continue on.

Left to honor his memory is his loving wife of 38 years, Deborah Martin Atwood of Lumberton, TX; daughter, Brittaney Atwood and husband, Patrick of Silsbee; Sisters, Billie Ann Hock and husband, Leroy of Jasper, TX, Sue Holden and husband, Cecil of Deweyville, TX; Grandchildren, London Chae’,  Brooklyn Danielle, Kingston O’Neil, and Riley Jaylynn.

Preceding Marvin in death are his son, Jason Daniel Atwood of Vidor, TX; Mother, Julia Katherine Harvell; Father, Marvin James Atwood Sr.; Sisters, Janette Kay and Brenda Verrett; Nephew Keaton Sims; and his beloved Best Friend and Side-kick, Debo.

Visitation with family and friends will be 6:00 – 8:00 pm., Tuesday June 27, 2017 at Grace Church, 1103 Highway 69 South, Kountze, TX. Marvin’s life honoring service will be 2:00 pm., Wednesday June 28, 2017, also at Grace Church. Internment R.S. Farmer’s Memorial Cemetery in Silsbee, TX.

Donations can be made to Child Abuse and Forensic Services, Inc. www.cafstx.org, texassane@aol.com or call 409-832-0421.