Army Veteran Floyd Marshal is a man of many talents. A native Arkansan, he was raised by a single mom of sixteen, ten boys and six girls. “Our mother was amazing. She encouraged a love of learning in all of us and we all went to at least some college.” Mr. Marshall studied French at the University of Arkansas in Pine Bluff and then at Philander Smith before joining the military in 1981. He finished his basic training at Fort Sill and then went to Ft. Jackson and later, Ft. Bragg. He was posted to Germany in 1983 and served three more years. “I joined the military to get an immersion in European languages. And I was able to travel all over while working in logistics for the Army.” He left the military in 1985 and has continued his love of languages by becoming a French teacher in Minneapolis.
He continued pursuing his love of languages, taking trips to study in Europe often. “I still keep up with it. I have studied German, Spanish, Italian, Greek, and of course my beloved French. I’m a member of a French club of retired teachers. We read books and even translate works from French into English.
Mr. Marshall’s other passions include music, history, and helping others. He plays piano and sings and was in choir throughout college. He has done a variety of mission trips, including going to Haiti as a translator. In 2006 I had so many health issues I had to resign. I went on disability and also went back to school to get a Ms in human resources. But my health problems continued and I was unable to manage my health issues and my money. Eventually, I was living in hotels and inflation ate always all my savings. I wasn’t feeling well so I went to the VA for a COVID test. It was negative, but when they learned my story, they called a social worker and he connected me with St. Francis House and the Veteran Day Treatment Center.
“The first thing, they got me clothes and coats- it made me cry. And between the classes here and at the Center, I feel like I’m back in school again. And I needed the help; I had hit rock bottom.”
Mr. Marshall continued “I can feel my sanity coming back. I’m getting in touch with my strengths and learning to be consistent. My health is improving; I can walk down the hall without my cane now and it’s improving a little every day. I can see a clear future with longevity and friends that I’ve met here. It’s the most incredible place. Camaradary, friendships, and daily groups taught me how to be a good steward, to be purpose-driven. It will be interesting to see what my chapter will be. I have never felt as much a part of an organization as here at St. Francis House. Every city should have a place like St. Francis House and I hope that once I leave, I can give back by being a volunteer and supporter. There has to always be a St. Francis house in our city. It’s like the Scripture about the seeds; I want your donors to know that they are sowing their seeds on fertile ground. I’m a St. Francis House fan!