Marvin Meddows Obituary

Marvin "Beanie" Kenward Meddows, 80, of Ooltewah, TN, formerly of Lebanon, IL, died Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at his residence.

Marvin was born April 12, 1945, to Laverne and Flora (nee Kimmle) Meddows in Lebanon, IL.

Marvin was a carpenter by trade, and a true craftsman with an eye for perfection, no matter the size of the project. He approached all of his endeavors, whether it was building a home, serving on a school board, or coaching a little league team, with drive and a passion of doing your best. The frequent phrases of "take pride in your work" and "adapt and overcome" were not just catchy sayings to him – it was how he lived his life.

Marvin served in Vietnam with the Army 5th Special Forces – Airborne. He was proud to have served his country and of earning his green beret. Upon returning home he worked as a union carpenter, originally in the East St. Louis Local 169 and later for the St. Louis – Kansas City Carpenters Regional Council. He was a member in good standing for 57 years. In semi-retirement, Marvin also worked for the Belle-Valley School District 119 as a custodian and track coach. His passion for coaching and of helping young athletes achieve their best was evident once again. Marvin was an avid runner, competing in races across the Midwest. He even competed in the Peachtree Road Race in Atlanta, GA. He also enjoyed playing golf and going for early morning walks with his dogs, Frisco and Izzy.

Marvin had served on the Lebanon School Board and was a member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ in Lebanon, IL.

Marvin was proceeded in death by his wife, Judith Kay (Evitts), nee Lasco; parents, Laverne and Flora Meddows; sister, Wanda Baum; brother, Wayne Meddows.

Marvin is survived by his son, Grant (Renee) Evitts of Ooltewah, TN; sister, Ruth Sparkman of Pocahontas, IL; his grandchildren, Logan, Julianne, and Travis; dear friend, Karen Zerby; and dear nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Shriners Children's Hospital, Vietnam Veterans of American, ASPCA.

Visitation: Wednesday, March 25, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, and Thursday, March 26, 9:00 am to 11:00 am, at St. Paul UCC, Lebanon, IL.

Funeral: Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 11:00 am, at St. Paul UCC, Lebanon, IL.

Funeral Procession to Jefferson Barracks, leaving St. Paul UCC, Friday, March 27, 2026 at 8:30 am.

Interment: Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery

Meridith Funeral Home, Lebanon, IL.