Marvin Townsend Sr.

He was born November 28, 1946 to the late Thelma T. Townsend Hagen and James Edward Townsend. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Gwendolyn Garnett Townsend and his son, Marvin Lavera Townsend, Jr.

Marvin was honorably one of the Charlottesville 12 who were the first to integrate Charlottesville City schools. He attended Jackson P. Burley High School.

After working at the University of Virginia in numerous departments and driving 18 wheelers for Allied Van Lines and Morton Frozen Foods, he joined the Charlottesville City Police Department where he served as an officer for 25 years. There were many that loved Marvin and his personality as he “walked the beat” in the City, especially at Estes Supermarket, Tonsler Park, Prospect Avenue and Hardy Drive.

He never met a stranger and he treated everyone with fairness and compassion. There are so many stories from people on both sides of the law about their interactions with Marvin.

Upon retiring from the City, he joined the Fluvanna County Sherriff’s department under Sherriff Ryant Washington until his retirement in 2016.

He joined First Baptist Church at a very young age under Rev. Benjamin Bunn and remained until he joined Haden Chapel United Methodist Church. He remained until his health began to decline.

Marvin also belonged to the Jefferson Lodge #20 Prince Hall Masonic Order.

He leaves to cherish his memory three sons, Marvin G. Townsend (Octavia) of Gloucester, VA, Japhia L. Townsend of Palmyra, VA, Matthew J. Townsend (Bridget) of Louisa, VA, siblings William R. Townsend (Julia) of Garden Park, ID and Vizena A. Howard of Charlottesville; 2 sisters-in-law, Dee McCauley and Tanya (Dan) Heller, 1 brother-in-law, Gregory Garnett, 8 Grandchildren, Quinton Townsend, Shaquille Townsend, Michaiah Townsend, Maryssa Townsend, Donte Tsutsumi, Melia Townsend, Zachory Townsend and Joel Townsend. 2 great grandchildren-Ellionna & Javin.

Funeral services will take place at Noon Friday February 20, 2026, at Lake Christian Church with the Rev. Lloyd Martin Officiating and Rev. George Gorman, Eulogist. Interment will be private.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at 11 AM.

Mr. Townsend’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the Hospice of the Piedmont, Dr. Karen Starr and staff and BrightStar

The family gratefully acknowledges and deeply appreciates the many acts of kindness shown to them during the illness and passing of our loved one.