Friends and Family of Zackary J. Marshall Turn Senseless Stabbing into Celebration of Life

It was a night of sadness and tears, but most of all it was a night to celebrate the life of Attleboro native Zackary J. Marshall, who was stabbed and killed in Providence, RI, just days before Christmas. 

More than 400 of Marshall's family members and friends packed the banquet room at Kirkbrae Country Club in Lincoln on Saturday night to show support for the first annual Zackary J. Marshall Benefit. The benefit was created to support Marshall's 3-month-old daughter, Kira Bella Marshall, and her mother, Nadia Rouk. 

"This was done to celebrate life and to never forget," said Paul Marshall, Zack's father. "It is awesome to get all of his friends together because Zackary was all about his friends and family. He loved them. 

"This is all for her, it's all for Kira," Marshall said as he wiped tears from his face.

"We struggle with how we will make sense of such a senseless tragedy," Marshall's mother, Dianne Marshall, told the crowd of 400 people. "We ask, can something positive come out of all of this?

"The answer has come from each and every one of you in this room," she added. "You have opened up your hearts in giving your time and opened up your wallets to help support Kira. For this we are deeply touched and you will forever be in our hearts."

Nadia Rouk, who delivered daughter Kira Bella Marshall less that two months before Marshall was killed, said she never realized how many people Marshall touched. 

"It's been tough," Rouk said. "I wish he was here so he could see what she does, like smile. She has his smile and his eyes." 

The fundraiser was amazing, Rouk said. "I feel unbelievable that this is all for our daughter. I keep a piece of him in my heart, so I feel very lucky."

Manning the "All Things Zack" raffle table, was Michael Barry, Marshall's uncle.

"I think Zack would have been the most protective, fun and funny father around. It's just too bad that the chance was taken away from him," Barry said. 

"He was loaded with personality," Barry added, as his eyes filled with tears. "Sometimes in the wake of such a tragedy you learn how an individual impacted so many lives. The stories that have been shared in the wake of this tragedy had a huge impact on this family. It's amazing how Zack had such appeal to all people, adults, people his age and his nieces and nephews.

Police are still investigating the Dec. 18 murder, which took place just a block away from McFaddens' in downtown Providence.

"The family has a great deal of confidence in the Providence Police detectives division," Barry said. "They are working hard on this every day. This family is a truly hard-working family, who believes in the justice system, and they are full of morals and values that will carry them through this."

Matthew Guertin, who was with Marshall when he was stabbed that night, said Marshall has had an impact on so many people over the years. 

"Zack touched every one of these people in some way," he said, pointing to the crowd of people. "Tonight is a celebration of Zack's legacy. It's about remembering him and honoring him."  

While the Saturday night event was the first annual benefit, Paul Marshall said the family plans to make it an annual event. In May, a group of 25 volunteer motorcycle riders will support a ride in Marshall's name. The ride is being organized by Marshall family friend, Chris Legere. 

"They will start at Boneyard in Seekonk and go by my house as a tribute to Zack," Marshall said. 

The benefit would not have been made possible without the generosity of the community, according to the Marshalls. Dozens of companies, including Brigg's Corner, Pine Valley Stables, Lenn Arts, Signs by Tomorrow and many more donated items and gift cards for the baskets. Kirkbrae Country Club was generous for providing its services and working hand-in-hand with the family. 

Individuals who were not able to make it to the benefit and would still like to make a monetary donation may do so by sending a check to the Kira Bella Marshall Fund,  c/o Citizens Bank,  469 Pleasant St. Attleboro, MA 02703.