Marvin L. Bodley, Sr.
Marvin L. Bodley, Sr., a decorated veteran, distinguished scholar, and beloved educator, passed away on August 9, 2025, at the age of 75 in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
He was born on Dec. 9, 1949, in Selma, Al., to John Shorts, Sr. and Annie Lee Harper.
In 1959, his mother relocated the family to Gary, Indiana, where Dr. Bodley began a lifelong journey of resilience and achievement. He left high school in 1967 to serve in the U.S. Army, including a tour in Vietnam from October 1968 to August 1969. His valor earned him several medals, including the Purple Heart, and his service was honored with proclamations of “Dr. Marvin L. Bodley Day” in both Knoxville (May 25) and Chattanooga (June 10).
After earning his GED, Dr. Bodley pursued higher education with unmatched dedication. He graduated cum laude from Western Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, followed by master’s degrees in Business Administration and Communications Arts and Sciences. At age 71, he earned a Ph.D. in Christian Education from Newburgh Theological University. His academic pursuits also included studies in physics, chemistry, horticulture, and agronomy.
Dr. Bodley’s professional career spanned both business and education. He held leadership roles at Sears, General Motors, and Volkswagen of America before dedicating 27 years to teaching math and English and serving as an Attendance Officer for Detroit Public Schools. He retired in 2011 and settled in Knoxville, later moving to Chattanooga.
A man of many talents, Dr. Bodley was a published author, classical pianist, poet, and sought-after keynote speaker. He shared a love of karaoke and travel with his devoted wife, Ann Bodley.
Dr. Bodley is survived by his loving wife, Ann Bodley; his children Nykula Bodley Hatten (Douglas), Angela Bodley Carter, Adiah Jones (Soda), Marvin L. Bodley, Jr; his stepchildren Kenneth Tomlinson and Dawni Grant; and his cherished children-in-love, Curtis Perry, Felipe Nelloms, and Amber Walker Hunter. He was preceded in death by his stepson, Harvey Tomlinson.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and wisdom in his grandchildren: Devonté, Vertina, Jaquar, Anila, Natasha, DJ, Sayani, Moriah, Ziggy, Kamryn, Ari, Kaila, Destinee, Kenneth Jr., Martin, Nia, Sidney, Sincere, Isaiah, seven great-grandchildren, three brothers, two sisters, and several special loved ones who will carry forward his spirit and values for generations to come.
Dr. Bodley’s life was a testament to perseverance, intellect, and service. His impact will continue to resonate through the lives he touched, the students he inspired, and the family he cherished.
Public viewing will begin at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21, followed immediately at noon by celebration of his remarkable life at Greater Tucker Baptist Church, 1115 North Moore.
Interment will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery with military honors. Gate time is 2 p.m.
Arrangements have been entrusted to John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., Chattanooga, 423-622-9995.