Marvin Gene Lingerfelt

Marvin "Dobbin" Gene Lingerfelt, age 91, passed away peacefully at his home in Cleveland, Tennessee, on May 31, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Athens, Tennessee, Marvin later moved to Ohio, where he made his home for more than fifty years. Following the loss of his beloved wife, Marguerite "Marge" Lingerfelt, and as his health declined, he returned to his East Tennessee roots. For the past eight years, he made his home with his niece and her husband Lana and Bruce Whisman, who were his caregivers.

Marvin was the last surviving member of a family of eight children. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marguerite "Marge" Lingerfelt; his sons, John Marshall Lingerfelt and James Donald Lingerfelt; his parents, Elbert and Oneda Sampson Lingerfelt; his brothers, Charles "Jabo," Roy Lee, Ross "Shot," and James Earl Lingerfelt; and his sisters, Cleo Haney, Lena Alene "Midge" Hatcher, and Pearl Townsend.

He is survived by his granddaughter, Beverly Lingerfelt Edwards (Kim,) and their sons, Zander and Malachi; his grandson, John Lingerfelt (Krystal,) and their son, Loki James; his stepdaughter, Becky Murphy; stepsons Daniel and Timothy Murphy, numerous step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will cherish his memory.

Marvin loved people and never met a stranger. He possessed a remarkable gift for singing, one that, according to his cousin Merle, was evident from childhood. While working in the fields together, young Dobbin would often leap onto a stump and burst into song for all to hear. In his younger years, he sang tenor with the Melody Boys gospel group, traveling throughout the country and sharing his faith and love of music. After returning to Tennessee, he and his sister Pearl faithfully ministered together in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, senior centers, community events, and churches throughout the area. Pearl played the piano while they both sang, bringing comfort and joy to countless people. He also enjoyed performing with a local band.

Marvin was a graduate of McMinn County High School. He retired from Milacron to lovingly care for his wife during her lengthy illness. He was a loyal friend to people from all walks of life. In 1989, he was honored with the title of Kentucky Colonel, the Commonwealth of Kentucky's highest civilian honor.

A gifted craftsman, gardener, and landscaper, Marvin also excelled in sports and earned a room full of horseshoe trophies, including numerous state championships. Yet above all his accomplishments, he was a follower of Jesus Christ. Even during his most difficult days, he remained grateful for life's simple blessings and the kindness shown by those around him.

He will be remembered for his infectious smile, beautiful tenor voice, witty sayings, genuine kindness, and fierce love for family. His life touched countless people, and his legacy of faith, gratitude, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to his physician, Dr. Daniel Vance and his assistant Logan, for their extraordinary care; to Dr. Jerry Richt; to the Hospice of Chattanooga team, especially Pansy, Angel, Chris, Christina, Candace, and Julia; to Pastor James Sears and the congregation of Mt. Olive Ministries in Cleveland; to Woodward Church of God in Athens; Melanie Vencion and to the many friends whose prayers, love, and support blessed Marvin and his family throughout his final journey.

A graveside service will be held in Ohio in October, where Marvin will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Marge.