Marvin Ray McCulloch III

Marvin Ray McCulloch III, lovingly known as “Baby Boy. MM3 and Trip,” touched the lives of those around him during his brief time on Earth. Born at the Scott and White Hospital in Temple, Texas, on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, Marvin was a son whose presence was anticipated with great joy and love. His mother and father delighted in the beautiful surprise that he brought into their lives. Celebrations began as soon as the happy news was revealed, with family and friends gathering to launch powder cannons filled with baby blue—a beautiful symbol of his forthcoming arrival.

From the earliest moments of his existence, it was clear that Marvin was a spirited little one. His mother felt his lively movements throughout her pregnancy; he seemed to revel in the warmth of bath time and the affectionate sounds of his cousin Mercy. The joyous laughter of his mother would awaken him, and his father took great care to bond with him, often speaking lovingly to Marvin through his mother’s belly. Born via emergency C-section, Marvin entered the world with a full head of long black hair, already displaying the tenacity that would characterize his brief life.

In his short week with his family, Marvin exhibited a fiery spirit, resisting touches from all but his devoted parents. They fondly recall his delightful little punches and kicks, his long toes, and the tiny hands they were fortunate to hold. He was not only their baby; he was a bundle of dreams, hopes, and love, even if the world felt a little too big for him.

The circumstances surrounding Marvin's death were heartbreaking. After a routine ultrasound, he was diagnosed with Trisomy 18—a condition that would ultimately leave an irreplaceable hole in the hearts of all who loved him. His journey was brief, yet it resonated deeply within the hearts of those who cherished him.

Marvin is survived by his loving great grandmas, Evelyn Wiley, Theresa Leader, Shirley Reed; grandparents, Jacquelyn and Blake Fieber, Chris Keefer; his devoted parents, Marvin Ray McCulloch II and Jadyn Taylor Rayeann Keefer; and his doting aunts and uncles, Emma Fieber, Kaci Holloway, Bailey Bryant, Miranda Reed, Christopher Keefer, Caleb Keefer, and Colby Keefer. Also surviving him are his two feline companions, Zeus, Zila and one dog, Bella.

He is preceded in death by his great grandfather, John Reed Sr., grandfathers, Marvin McCulloch Sr., and Jackie Davis. Though his time was fleeting, the love that surrounded Marvin Ray McCulloch III will forever remain, and his memory will be carried on in the hearts of those blessed to have known him. As the Eagles fan family he was destined to be a part of grieves his passing, they hold tightly to the hope and love he brought, united in the tenderness that he inspired.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sabrina Young at Young's Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center.