Marsha’s husband Flipper, daughters Marla, Mayla and Etta, and grandson Emmett, donated the benches to create a peaceful space for cancer patients and their families to find solace during treatments. The donation was made from the Marsha McDaniel Memorial Fund through the AdventHealth Gordon Foundation.
“The shade benches are a beautiful addition to our campus, and they have already received a lot of use from patients who are visiting the cancer center for infusions,” said Chris Self, president and CEO of AdventHealth Gordon. “We are extremely grateful to Flipper and his family for this beautiful gift in memory of Marsha and all that she meant to the hospital and our community.”
Marsha served as manager of the AdventHealth Gordon Gift Shop from 2009 to 2020. Marsha was a loving wife and mother, nurturing colleague and friend, passionate volunteer and creative spirit who left grace and beauty everywhere. Flipper, Marsha’s husband, has been a member of the AdventHealth Gordon Foundation Board since 2006.
Marsha died on August 13, 2020 of health complications due to COVID-19. Following her passing, friends, family and community members rallied together to raise more than $50,000 as a tribute to Marsha. The Marsha McDaniel Memorial Fund is part of the AdventHealth Gordon Foundation and supports indigent care, nursing scholarships and helps others when they need it most. Additionally, AdventHealth Gordon renamed the gift shop “Marsha’s Mercantile” in Marsha’s honor.
Marsha’s favorite scripture was Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” The scripture will be etched on a plaque and placed in the garden with the shade benches.
If you would like to make a contribution to the Marsha McDaniel Memorial Fund, please contact Wendy Taylor at
Call706-602-7800 x2318.