Dr. Marsha Jones Certain

Dr. Marsha Certain was born on November 18, 1954, in Augusta, GA, to the late Mary Virginia and Hurley D Jones. In 1964, Marsha and her family relocated to Brunswick, GA, where Marsha’s father began his cardiology career: a move that would prove pivotal in inspiring Marsha’s future aspirations and passionate career.

Marsha graduated as the valedictorian of her class from Brunswick High School in 1973. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Georgia. While attending the University of Georgia, she was an active member and President of Tri Delta Sorority. Following her doctoral training at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, she completed her Residency in Internal Medicine and Cardiology at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta as well as a Fellowship in Cardiovascular Medicine at Emory University.

In 1987, Marsha relocated to her hometown of Brunswick to join her father as an interventional cardiologist and partner with Strickland, Certain & Jones. As a female physician, Marsha was a pioneer in her field at a time when male physicians comprised roughly 90% of practicing physicians. She compassionately cared for thousands of patients over the course of her over 35 years in private practice with Strickland, Certain & Jones and Southeast Georgia Physicians Associates – Cardiology.

During her 37-year tenure at Southeast Georgia Health System, Marsha held numerous positions on the Brunswick Campus Medical Staff. She served as a member of the Glynn-Brunswick Memorial Hospital Authority from 2001-2004, Chief of Medical Staff from 1996-1998, and was a member of the Health System’s Foundation Board from 1994-1998.

Living in coastal Georgia, Marsha had an avid love for the outdoors with countless pursuits in hiking, paddling, and exploration across our country and beyond. In this time, her ongoing interest in conservation compelled her to become actively involved in The Nature Conservancy. Her steadfast involvement and dedication led to her appointment to the Board of Trustees of The Nature Conservancy of Georgia in June of 2016, a role in which she continued to hold until the time of her passing.

In addition to her passionate commitment in The Nature Conservancy, Marsha was an active participant in the Lower Altamaha Historical Society, Georgia Wilderness Society, St. Simons Land Trust and Coastal Georgia Historical Society. She was a longstanding member of the Episcopal Church at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Brunswick and St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Darien, GA.

Although she had many accomplishments, Marsha’s proudest and most important were her children and family. She deeply enjoyed gathering with her family in the spaces she loved.

Marsha Certain was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Hurley and Mary Virginia Jones. She is survived by two proud and loving children: Matthew Certain (Adrienne) and Helen Certain Rentz (Jeff), both of St. Simons Island, GA. Dr. Certain is also survived by her siblings: Sherry Barrett (Richard) of Greenville, SC; Elizabeth Sudduth and Mitchell Jones (Sherri), both of St. Simons Island, GA; and her five grandchildren: Libby Certain, Margaret Certain, Sarah Certain, Turner Rentz, and Miles Rentz.

The family wishes to express its deepest appreciation for the tremendous outpouring of love and support from friends and colleagues. Shared memories from those that knew and loved her have served to strengthen the family during this time of loss.

Dr. Marsha Certain’s life will be honored and celebrated at a private family memorial service. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in her name to The Nature Conservancy of Georgia, 1270 Caroline Street, Ste. D-120, PMB #357, Atlanta, GA 30307.