Marcell Proctor

Marcell Proctor:  A Life Well Lived

Marcell Proctor, born January 4, 1936, in Asheville, NC, passed away peacefully at home on December 16, 2024, surrounded by music, laughter, and love. The son of the late Jess and Lillian Proctor, Marcell was a man of unwavering love, wisdom, and generosity who built a legacy that touched countless lives.

Marcell’s life journey took him from Asheville’s vibrant Southside neighborhood to Paterson, NJ, where he became a trailblazer in business and community service. He held careers in the Transportation Industry and later founded OGUN Enterprises, his trucking company and River Front Development Group, a Affordable Housing Developers, Business Services, and Certified Employment Training. A passionate entrepreneur, he owned multiple businesses, including restaurants and real estate ventures, and was recognized in publications as far away as Germany.

Marcell was a committed civil rights advocate, playing pivotal roles in movements for justice and equality. He brought Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to Paterson, NJ, and was an active member of the NAACP and SCLC. His leadership extended into politics, community development, and urban renewal efforts.

Above all, Marcell was a devoted family man. He is survived by his seven children, including six daughters: Sabrina Carter (David) of Huntington, NY, Barbara Wall (Mike) Highpoint, NC, Sharon Carmichael Dillion, SC, Charlotte Proctor-Cobb (Odis) Paterson, NJ, Marshay Proctor-Bates, Courtney Proctor-Bates of Columbia, SC, and one son, Marcell Ashley Proctor-Bates of Paterson, NJ. He also leaves behind a sister, Yvonne Lindsey, a brother, Joseph Cornell Proctor (Constance) of Asheville, NC, 17 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, seven great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He is reunited in eternal rest with his parents, beloved wives Mattie Proctor-Smith and Marice Proctor, cherished children daughter Jacqueline Gibbons and son Marcelleious Valentine Proctor, and other dear family members.

Marcell's life was defined by his faith, family, and dedication to uplifting others. To those who knew him, he was a guiding light—a man who lived boldly, loved deeply, and inspired us to do the same.

A Funeral Service to honor the life of Marcell will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Tried Stone Missionary Baptist Church (100 Carroll Avenue, Asheville, NC), at 1pm. He will lie in state one hour prior to the service. Burial will immediately follow at Sunset Cemetery. Viewing will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 5pm - 7pm at Avery's Memorial Chapel. The service will be live streamed on Avery's Memorial Chapel's Facebook page.

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