Alvin "Arlie" Marshall

Colonel Alvin Arlyn "Arlie" Marshall, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, coach, mentor, and lacrosse legend, passed away surrounded by the love of family and friends. His life was defined by dedication, leadership, athletic excellence, and an unwavering commitment to the sport he loved.

Arlyn was born in Greene County, Virginia. During World War II, his family relocated to Dahlgren, Virginia, where his father worked at the U.S. Navy base manufacturing naval ammunition in support of the war effort. Following the end of the war, the family settled in Dundalk, Maryland, where Arlyn's athletic journey would begin to take shape.

He attended Southern High School in Baltimore City, where he excelled in football, basketball, and lacrosse. Initially interested in playing baseball, Arlyn was encouraged by the school's baseball coach and athletic director to give lacrosse a try—a decision that would forever change his life and leave an enduring mark on the sport. In his senior year, he was selected to the prestigious 1952 All-Maryland Senior High School Lacrosse Team.

Arlyn continued his education and athletic career at Johns Hopkins University from 1952 to 1956, competing in both football and lacrosse. His lacrosse accomplishments were extraordinary. He earned Honorable Mention All-American honors in 1955 and was named First Team All-American Midfielder in 1956. That same year, he was selected to the North-South All-Star Team, cementing his place among the nation's elite players.

In 1955, Arlyn married his high school sweetheart, Ellen Snyder. Together they built a loving family. They were blessed with two children, Steven (Christine) and Denise Martini (Dennis); five grandchildren (and spouses), Dennis Jr., Bradley, Katelyn, Jacqueline, and Jessica; and eight great-grandchildren, Dennis III, Taylor, Lincoln, Hunter, Jack, Kaeley, Jackson, and Ryder, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.

Known throughout the lacrosse world as "Arlie," he continued playing at the highest levels after graduating from Johns Hopkins. He competed for several powerhouse club teams, including Mt. Washington, University Club/Baltimore Lacrosse Club, and Carling Lacrosse Club. He also participated in the first televised box lacrosse league during the mid-1960s, helping introduce the game to a broader audience.

When his playing days concluded, Arlie transitioned seamlessly into coaching, where his impact became even greater. In 1970, he became head coach of the Carling Lacrosse Club and led the team to a national club championship in 1972. In 1977, he joined the legendary Maryland Lacrosse Club (MLC) as head coach, guiding the organization to six national championships in 1979, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1988, and 1992. His 1982 MLC squad achieved a perfect 17-0 season, one of the most memorable accomplishments in club lacrosse history.

Arlie's influence extended beyond the club level to the international stage. He proudly served with the USA Men's Lacrosse program in 1986 and 1990 and was honored to lead the 1990 United States Men's National Team as head coach. Under his leadership, Team USA captured the World Championship in Australia. He later contributed to the 1994 Canadian National Team, which finished as runner-up to the United States—an outcome that always allowed him to proudly proclaim, "Go USA!"

His lifelong contributions to athletics were recognized through induction into both the Johns Hopkins Athletic Hall of Fame and the U.S. Lacrosse Foundation Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 1991. These honors reflected not only his achievements but also the respect and admiration he earned from generations of players, coaches, and fans.

Even after concluding his elite club coaching career, Arlie never stopped teaching the game he loved. He continued coaching young athletes at Annapolis Area Christian Middle School, Queen Anne's County High School, and Easton High School. While serving as an assistant offensive coordinator, both Queen Anne's and Easton captured Maryland State Championship titles. His passion for developing players and sharing his knowledge remained as strong as ever.

While his accomplishments on the field were remarkable, those who knew Arlie best will remember his character, humility, competitive spirit, sense of humor, and deep devotion to family. He inspired countless athletes, mentored generations of coaches, and helped shape the growth of lacrosse in the United States and around the world.

In addition to his accomplishments in athletics, Arlyn proudly served his country for 40 years in the United States military. Over the course of his distinguished career, he held positions in the Active Army, Army Reserve, and National Guard, ultimately retiring with the rank of Colonel. His military service reflected the same leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence that defined every aspect of his life. Among his most memorable assignments were his work with the Nike Hercules Missile Program during the height of the Cold War and his service in the Army Aviation Division. He often spoke with pride about the friendships, challenges, and experiences that shaped his military career, and he remained deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve his country for four decades. 

 Colonel Alvin Arlyn "Arlie" Marshall leaves behind a lasting legacy of excellence, leadership, and love. His influence will continue to be felt wherever the game of lacrosse is played and wherever family and friends gather to remember a life so well lived.

 Family will receive visitors at Singleton Funeral & Cremation Services on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 from 11 am-1 pm. A funeral service will follow at 1 pm in the funeral home chapel. Interment to immediately follow at Glen Haven Memorial Park in Glen Burnie, Maryland. 

 Arlie will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always celebrated.

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