Daisy Marshburn was born on February 2, 1925 in Raleigh, North Carolina to Herst M. and Gertrude M. Dickens, née Womble. She was one of 13 children born and raised in the family home at 816 Cotton Place. As a young girl, she was affectionately nicknamed “Cheri” because she loved eating cherries. From an early age, Daisy was a caregiver to her younger siblings and other family members. For years, Daisy worked as a domestic helper before becoming a full-time homemaker when she married. She took pride in her work and often demanded dignified treatment from others, even when social norms did not dictate such behavior.
She settled in New York City in the 1950s with her two eldest daughters, Maxine and Toni. It was there that she met her future husband, Henry Marshburn. Daisy and Henry had eight children together. She raised her children and several grandchildren in her home in Spanish Harlem throughout the 1980s. As a disciplinarian, Daisy was a woman of few words. A simple, stern glare could set her children and grandchildren on the straight and narrow. She was reserved and opinionated - although her opinion was often presented in somewhat clever ways. And although Daisy did not have the opportunity to continue her formal education, she was constantly learning and reading all types of books and articles. She was known to keep a copy of Back to Eden handy and she would reference it often to find holistic remedies for all sorts of ailments. She was known for touting the benefits of organic apple cider vinegar as a supplement for good health.
New York City was Daisy’s playground. The city’s vibrance facilitated her healthy, independent lifestyle. Daisy enjoyed taking long walks and runs alone. She had friends on almost every block and would often stop to acknowledge virtually everyone she passed. On any given day she could be seen jogging along the sidewalk with her jump rope in tow. Daisy loved music and dancing. Some nights you might find her in a glamorous sequined dress and heels as she made her way to Roseland Ballroom to dance the night away with friends who were often decades younger. She inspired her contemporaries and impressed the youth. She was a permanent fixture in her neighborhood and treated everyone she encountered with equal love and respect.
Daisy moved to Houston to live closer to her daughter, Angela in 2002 when her health started to decline. It was the first time in 40 years she had lived outside of Spanish Harlem. Initially, she lived in an independent living residence for some time, celebrating her 80th birthday there with family and friends before moving in with Angela when her healthcare needs required additional care. Her daughter, Toni Murdien, eventually moved to Houston from Massachusetts, and Daisy spent the rest of her life living with her. Toni dedicated over a decade of her life to the constant care of her beloved mother. Daisy received a steady flow of visits, hugs, and kisses from her children and grandchildren throughout her years in Houston. Even when she could no longer articulate her thoughts or remember names, one thing is for certain, she always knew she was loved. On the morning of April 12th Daisy passed away peacefully at her home in her sleep with Toni close by, listening to some of her favorite tunes.
Daisy is predeceased by her parents; ten siblings; husband, Henry Marshburn; daughters Fatima Bryant and Dr. Inez Marshburn; Step-daughter Theresa DeCosta, and granddaughter Jutayo Naylor (Perry).
She is survived by brothers, Charles Dickens Sr., Lawrence Dickens Sr., and sister, Betty Jean Williams; Her only son, Anthony Marshburn; Daughters: Maxine Harper, Toni Murdien (Homer, deceased), Carolyn Marshburn (Paul), Renee Ozomaro (Emmy), Angela Marshburn, Michelle Marshburn, Monique Marshburn, and Toni Marshburn (Yeimis); Twenty-seven grandchildren; Nineteen great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss her terribly and will never be forgotten for the kindness she shared with her family and friends.
Partager l'avis de décès
v.1.8.18