Dr. Marshall Francis Xavier

Dr. Marshall Francis Xavier, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2024 at his home in Staten Island, New York. He was born on October 29, 1967 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and was the youngest of three children of Retnam Francis Xavier & Grace Philomena. Marshall began his Christian journey while living in Malaysia when he received the Holy Ghost at the age of twelve and was later baptized in Jesus name. Dr. Marshall received his undergraduate degree in Hospitality Management and began to pursue a career in hospitality management education. While working as an instructor, he met and married the love of his life, Vani Sothinathan. Shortly after their marriage, the two were called by God into the ministry. Since that time, both have worked tirelessly to spread the gospel around the world for 32 years.
Dr. Marshall served as a National Evangelist with the United Pentecostal Church of Malaysia from 1995 to 2001. In 2001 Marshall and Vani became members of The Pentecostals of Alexandria (POA) and were sponsored by the POA as they planted and pastored churches in Malaysia from 2003 to 2004 and then in New Zealand from 2004 to 2009.
In 2009 the Lord led the Marshalls back to Alexandria, LA. During their time in Alexandria, Marshall served as the Director of Evangelism & Outreach Ministries and as the Administrator of the POA Training Center from 2009 to 2018. He also served as Assistant to the Pastor at POA
God called Marshall once again to evangelize in 2018. Though sad to leave Alexandria, Marshall began traveling to churches within the United States to assist with evangelism and growth. During this time, not only did Marshall obtain a Master of Arts degree and a Doctorate degree in Divinity from the Christian Bible Institute and Seminary of Houston, Texas, but he also established Marshall International Ministries (MIM). At the time of his passing, Marshall was working tirelessly to reach the homeless and immigrant communities of New York City.
Marshall is loved by many in the United States, Malaysia, and New Zealand, and he will be greatly missed. He was a true soul winner and built lasting relationships wherever he went.
Dr. Marshall is survived by his wife of 32 years, Vani, and his siblings Marie Harding, and Alex Xavier.
Funeral services will be held at The Pentecostals of Alexandria in Alexandria, Louisiana. Visitation is Tuesday, March 5, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm with memorial service at 7:00pm. All are welcome to attend.
Final Interment will be at Forest Lawn Memorial Park Pineville, LA
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the POA Street Ministry.
Please make checks payable to The Pentecostals of Alexandria.