MARION JEFFERSON TRAMMELL
January 26, 1933 – November 12, 2017
Marion Jefferson Trammell, lovingly known as M.J., entered eternal rest on November 12, 2017 in Boerne, TX. He was born in LaMesa, TX on January 26, 1933 to Odie and Birdie Mae (Hollis) Trammell; he now reunites with his partner, wife of over 40 years, Elaine Trammell, mother and father, 9 siblings (Bernice, Orid, Thomas, Odie Jr., Mary, Vera, Daniel, Hettie Beth and Dorothy Jewel), his grandson Draven Wirick-Trammell and many family and friends. He is survived by this children, Diana (late Dennis) Bush, Mark (Sheri) Trammell, Cynthia (David) Barrett; grandchildren: Philip (Katie Parker-Bush), Matthew Trammell, Michael Trammell, Joseph Trammell, Alayna (Brian) Barrett-Fox, Abigail Barrett; numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
M.J. often told stories of how he grew up very poor. His family would find work where they could to keep the family together. Support came from his family, but especially from the educators and coaches in his life. He fondly told tales of his time working at Joe’s Hamburger Stand during high school. His siblings would cover his shifts so that he could play football and stay in school. In 1951 he graduated from Harlandale High School. After graduation, he worked at J. & B.’s Hamburger Stand until he joined the Navy. Navy stories included his hate of the cold weather in Chicago, love of coaching intramural sports, and the buddies he made in Little Creek. It was in Little Creek where he met a Navy Chaplain that encouraged him to return to San Antonio to use his GI Bill for college. Returning to San Antonio, he met Elaine Jungman during Frontier Days in Bandera, TX. They married in 1956 and later had 3 children. M.J. graduated from Trinity University with a Bachelors of Science degree in Physical Education and Biology. His teaching and coaching career began at Southcross Junior High followed by positions at Harlandale, Central Catholic, and Holy Cross High Schools. Each place brought him special memories. Coach Trammell’s career dream was fulfilled in 1972 when he was named head coach of his Alma Mater, Harlandale, where he spent many special years! Once an Indian, always an Indian!
He enjoyed fishing, writing poetry, and accordion music. M.J. was an avid gardener and amateur chicken farmer who spent many peaceful hours tending to his veggies and caring for his hens. His grandchildren were his pride and joy and inherited his love of swimming, gardening and chickens.
He was always proud of their accomplishments. So much more could be said about this man, but most importantly, he was truly loved and admired by people whose lives he touched.
