Marvell Porter

Marvell Porter, born August 14, 1928, in Springfield, Tennessee, peacefully transitioned on Sunday, March 1, 2026.  He leaves behind a legacy of faith, devotion, service, and song.  A Devoted man of God, Marvell lived a life grounded in unwavering faith, deep love for his family, and steadfast commitment to his community.

At the center of his life was his beloved wife, Clella, his partner, and best friend of 76 years. Their marriage stood as a testament to enduring love, loyalty, and faith.  Together they built a strong foundation centered on family, service, and devotion-a legacy that continues through generations. 

Marvell dedicated 34 years of faithful service to John Deere Harvester Works before retiring.  His strong work ethic and commitment to excellence were evident throughout his career.  Beyond his employment, he was a devoted committee member of the UAW Local 865 where he actively supported fellow workers and union efforts, he was chairman of the retired Chapter for 21 years.  He also assisted with telephone polls for the Democratic Party, reflecting his dedication to civic Engagement and ensuring voices in his community were heard.

For more than 50 years, Marvell served as a board member for Hampton Township. His decades of leadership and service demonstrated his unwavering commitment to improving the community he loved. 

He found joy in life’s simple and meaningful pleasures.  He loved bowling and proudly played in a bowling league, enjoyed fishing and hunting for mushrooms, and spent hours collecting and organizing his coin collection. In the past five years, he delighted family and friends with one of his newest hobbies – making up songs with humor and heart, captured his joyful spirit, and brought smiles to many.

Marvell Porter will be remembered as a man of faith, a devoted husband, a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, hardworking provider, and a dedicated servant to Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church where he served as a deacon for 68 years, church treasurer for 30 years as well as a trustee.  His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife Clella Mae Porter, his children Clella Diana Allen, Gail Porter McIntyre, Marilyn Jeanette Porter, and Vivian “Benny” Lyord, his eight grandchildren, Adrian Lyord, Anthony Lyord, Jason Allen, Ivey Colvin, Kemberly Lyord, Blake Allen, Lauren McIntyre, and Kendall Bolen-Porter, twenty- five great-grandchildren, eleven great-great-grandchildren, his sister Johnnie Ruth Brown, brother Jimmy Barham and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.  Marvell was preceded in death by his mother Brooksie Baker, father Demoy Porter, and brother Ira Douglas “Tap” Porter.

Funeral services will be 12:00 p.m. Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, East Moline.  Visitation will be two hours prior to services.  Pastor P. Wonder Harris will officiate.  Burial will be at Hampton Township Cemetery.  Memorials can be made to Mt. Zion Senior Lunch Mission.  Sullivan-Ellis Mortuary, Ltd.  is assisting the family.

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