James "Buddy" E. Marsh, Sr.

Mr. James “Buddy” E. Marsh, Sr., 72, of Twin City passed away on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Emanuel Medical Center. He was born on December 15, 1953, in Swainsboro, to the late Edward Marsh and Lula Bell Scarboro.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Ray Marsh, Dennis Marsh, Edmond Marsh, Edward Marsh; sisters, Carol Calhoun, Cheryl Brown, Celeste Marsh, Eddie Dean Marsh.

James Marsh, better known as “Buddy” was born in Swainsboro, GA. He was the oldest boy amongst his large group of siblings. He moved out at the age of 13 and started driving a pulp wood truck with his uncle. Buddy spent many years logging and doing mechanic work. He married at 23 and started a family. In 2000, he bought a well rig and started a new venture. Although he had never drilled a well in his life, he built a highly successful business- Emanuel Well Drilling. He spent many years working from sunup to sundown providing for his family and teaching his boys the value of hard work and a good work ethic.

When Buddy wasn’t logging, doing mechanic work, or drilling wells you could find him racing or working on his #6 racecar. He spent many Friday nights at Swainsboro Raceway. He also had a love for fishing. Many Saturdays were spent at the Altamaha.

Buddy never met someone in need that he wouldn’t help - literally giving them the shirt off his back. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, generous heart, willingness to help anyone, and his love for his family. His legacy of hard work, determination, and love for family will all live on through all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his sons, James “Duner” E. Marsh, Jr. of Twin City, Rick Marsh (Brooke), Blake Marsh (Jodi) both of Canoochee; brothers, Kevin Marsh (Stacie) of Kite, David Marsh (Janena) of Oak Park, Thomas Marsh of Knoxville, TN; sisters, Joan Akridge (Lewis) of Stillmore, Crystal Marsh of Kite; grandchildren, Ansley McQuaig, Aceton Marsh, Aden McQuaig, Addi Marsh, Nathan Marsh, Abbey Chapman (Brandon), Ab Marsh, Jake Marsh, Ayla Marsh, Tripp Marsh, Kennalyn Marsh and several nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in the Chapel of Chapman Funeral Home with Reverend Phil Wilson officiating.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Chapman Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Jimmy “Mop” Akridge, Jerry Akridge, Ricky Akridge, Lewis Akridge, James Akridge, Mike Broadway, Wayne Hall, Dale Johnson, Danny Wayne Faircloth, and Andy Dixon.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Sunshine House, 328 West Main Street, Swainsboro, Georgia 30401.

Condolences may be expressed at www.chapmanfhofswainsboro.com

Chapman Funeral Home of Swainsboro is in charge of all arrangements for Mr. James “Buddy” E. Marsh, Sr, 72, of Twin City.