Honoring Marshall Barnes | Juneteenth & Father’s Day Tribute

Celebrating Marshall Barnes

Throughout June, we’ll be highlighting the men and boys whose stories, milestones, and presence continue to leave a mark on our family and community.

Marshall Barnes

We pause to honor a young man who represents both the dreams of his ancestors and the promise of future generations—our son, Marshall Barnes.

Juneteenth reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who endured slavery, segregation, discrimination, and hardship while continuing to believe in freedom, education, faith, and opportunity. Because they persevered, young people like Marshall can dream without limits and pursue their God-given purpose.

Marshall stands on the shoulders of many who came before him – Lewis and Roxie Wynn Barnes. Rhea Mae (Mommy Rhea) Barnes and Langston Barnes. He is the grandson of hardworking families from Courtland, Virginia, whose values of faith, discipline, service, and perseverance continue to guide him today.

At just fifteen years old, Marshall has already demonstrated remarkable character, determination, and leadership. He recently achieved a milestone that only a small percentage of martial artists ever reach—earning his Fourth Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo and completing the program at Ahn’s Taekwondo.

Marshall serves as an Assistant Instructor, helping teach and mentor younger students while creating a positive learning environment for others. He is also a member of the Leadership Team, Instructor Club, and Demonstration Team, where he continues to develop his leadership abilities.

Academically, Marshall is a rising sophomore at Princeton High School with strong interests in biology, mathematics, history, and world languages. His intellectual curiosity and commitment to learning have earned him recognition, including the Skills and Interest Scholarship.

Marshall’s love of learning extends beyond the classroom. He has studied Mandarin Chinese, completed four years of Spanish, and experienced life in both China and South Korea, developing an appreciation for cultures and people around the world.

Music has also become an important part of his journey. Marshall is a talented saxophone player who performs as a member of both the High School Band and the Jazz Band. Through music, he continues to develop creativity, discipline, teamwork, and confidence while sharing his gifts with others.

As an intern with The Arch Group, Marshall is learning business, technology, communication, and organizational skills that will prepare him for future leadership opportunities.

What makes me most proud, however, is not his accomplishments.

It is his character.
Marshall is kind. He is respectful. He is thoughtful. He is disciplined.

He treats people with dignity and compassion. He is the type of young man who quietly works hard, sets goals, and continues moving forward without needing recognition.

His future aspirations speak volumes about the man he is becoming. Marshall hopes to attend college, pursue advanced degrees, continue developing his leadership and language skills, and one day open a Taekwondo facility in an economically disadvantaged community so he can mentor and support young people through martial arts and positive role models.

That dream reflects something larger than personal success.

It reflects service. It reflects purpose. It reflects legacy.

On this Juneteenth, I see in Marshall the realization of prayers offered by previous generations.

We thank God for the privilege of being his parents.

Marshall, your mother and I love you deeply. We are proud of the young man you have become and excited about the man you are still becoming.

May you continue to walk with integrity. May you continue to lead with humility. May you continue to learn with curiosity. May you continue to serve with compassion.

And may you always remember that your greatest accomplishments will never be measured solely by what you achieve, but by how many lives you inspire, encourage, and uplift along the way.

Marshall, You are part of a powerful legacy. And your story is only beginning.

With Love and Pride, Mom and Dad (Stacey and Scotty)