Marvin Gay Beck

1933-2017

Marvin G. Beck, Sr., lifelong resident of the Pensacola area, passed away on Monday July 31, to join his Heavenly Father. He was 84.

Born in 1933, Marvin graduated from Pensacola High School in 1952, then went on to Pensacola Junior College and the University of Southern Mississippi, where he starred on the men's basketball teams. He returned to Pensacola and became the varsity basketball coach at Pensacola High School, where he led teams to 2 state championships, including 1966 with a perfect 30-0 record. In 1967, Marvin was named the first head basketball coach at the University of West Florida, where he coached for 9 seasons. In 1973 Marvin also coached a team representing the U.S. at the South African Open International Games in Pretoria, South Africa, winning the gold medal with a mixed-race team, during the apartheid era. Marvin was inducted into the UWF Hall of Fame in 2010.

Following his coaching career, Marvin was elected to the office of County Commissioner, and served Escambia County from 1976-1983. After leaving office, Marvin rounded out his career working for the Escambia County School District.

Marvin was a long-time member of St. Luke United Methodist Church. An avid sportsman, he loved the outdoors, and especially enjoyed golfing, hunting, and fishing.

Marvin's entire life was devoted to teaching, coaching, serving, and helping others. He is survived by his wife, Laura Stabler Beck; brother Shelby Beck; children Teri Beck Robinson (John), Marvin Beck, Jr. (Patty), Kevin Beck, Sean Geraghty (Marisha), Brian Geraghty (Renee); daughter-in-law Pam Beck; 12 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren.

Marvin's family wishes to thank the loving and caring staff at Homestead Village for their devoted kindness during Marvin's time there.

Visitation will be at 8:00 am on Saturday August 5th at St Luke United Methodist Church, with a memorial funeral service immediately after at 9:00 am. Burial will be at Pine Barren Baptist Church cemetery in Century.

Arrangements under the direction of Eastern Gate Memorial Funeral Home, Pensacola, FL.