Thomas Marine

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mr. Thomas (Butchie Boy) Marine.  

 Mr. Marine passed away on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at MUSC in Florence, SC. 

 The family will receive friends at: 1016 Miller Terrace Hartsville, SC beginning Monday, November 4, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. 

 Arrangements will be announced by Davis Funeral Home, LLC of Hartsville, SC.

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. “

                                                                                                  Psalm 23:4

Thomas Marine, born on August 1, 1945, to parents, Thomas Forte and Ruth Margaret Kelly, peacefully departed this earthly life on October 26, 2024, following an illness.

Thomas attended Darlington County public schools where he received his foundational education. He obtained his high school diploma from Butler High School and later pursued college studies at Pace University in New York.

Thomas joined the United States Army and served his country with honor and pride until his retirement. He was a soldier in the 101st Airborne Division and a Vietnam War Veteran. Thomas received several awards, medals, and decorations during his commitment with the United States Army. Those prestigious accolades include: Sharpshooter (Rifle M-14), Expert (Rifle M-16), National Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Purple Heart (2 Awards), Vietnam Campaign Medal with DVC60, Army Commendation Medal, Bronze Star Medal, and Two O/S Bars. After retiring from the army, Thomas continued his passion for the military and became a case manager for the Department of Veteran affairs.

Later in life, Thomas met and married Marcia Marine.

Thomas was a distinguished gentleman always leading by example. Thomas was an avid reader and he loved to have history lessons with anyone that he came in contact with. He enjoyed watching and discussing politics. He also found pleasure in the simple things in life, like cooking and watching action movies. He loved and adored his kids and his absolute joy was teaching them about life.

Thomas was preceded in death by: his parents, Thomas Forte and Ruth Kelly; sister, Mildred P. Forte and brother, Leroy Kelly.

Surviving to cherish the memories of Thomas Marine are: his spouse, Marcia Marine; children: Tammy Marine, Nefertari Marine, Nefer-Temu Marine, and NeferTamia Marine; sister, Katherine F. Hunter; brothers: Billy (Carolyn) Forte, Timothy (Tena) Forte, William Kelly Sr., and Zachary Forte; sister-in-law, Inez Kelly; special nieces, Felicia (Wendell) Davis and Orema Kelly; special nephew, William (Gloria) Kelly; along with numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, other close relatives and friends