Jan Marsdon Scarbrough passed away unexpectedly in the early hours of Saturday morning, October 31, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.

Jan grew up in the close-knit community of Meadville, Mississippi, where he was known and loved by so many. Affectionately nicknamed “Saw Bones” during his younger years, he carried that name throughout his life, with many friends still calling him by it today.

Jan and his family experienced heartbreak at an early age when his mother, Dorothy Ann, passed away when he was only four years old. He grew up alongside his older brother, Dan, and his sisters, Sandra and Sherry. Later in life, his family grew to include David and Dwight.

A 1967 graduate of Franklin High School, Jan proudly played football for the Franklin Bulldogs and distinguished himself as an exceptional track athlete. For several summers, his father sent him to work on Merchant Marine ships traveling the world and he had many stories to tell about these days. He graduated from the University of Mississippi and was member of Sigma Chi Fraternity.

Following college, Jan returned to his hometown of Meadville, where he worked for Scarbrough Motors. He then “hitched hiked,” as he loved to tell, to Haight Asbury, CA, and other parts of the United States where he pursued a career in construction. One of his proudest accomplishments was building a beautiful summer home for his sister Sandra in Islesboro, Maine, a project that brought him tremendous pride and satisfaction.

Jan eventually returned to Mississippi, where he continued his career in historic restoration in Natchez. His craftsmanship and dedication can be seen in numerous buildings throughout South Mississippi and Franklin County. He later returned to his roots in Meadville, settling into a beautiful home he built himself, a reflection of his talent.

Among his many meaningful projects was the Franklin County Chess Center in Meadville, where he had the privilege of working alongside good friends and the late philanthropist Wade Creekmore.

Jan was loved by all. Charming, funny, and sometimes set in his ways, he had a personality that was truly his own. His children lovingly described him as “painfully old fashioned,” a quality that was as much a part of his charm as his wonderful sense of humor. Jan had a zest for life and enjoyed living it to the fullest.

Above all, Jan adored his four children and took tremendous pride in each of them. He was a constant support to them throughout their lives. He loved their visits to Meadville and always attended his grandchildren's dance recitals and sporting events. His love for his family was unwavering, and the memories they created together will forever be cherished.

Jan is survived by his four children: daughters Ella Brandt, Ann Williams (Matt), and Elyssa Addy (Joseph); and his son, Jan Marsdon Scarbrough Jr. (Caroline). He is also survived by his grandchildren: Clark and Charlotte Brandt; Molly, Sarah, and Quinn Williams; and Adyn and Beau Addy.

He is also survived by his brothers and sister: Dr. Dan Scarborough (Cheryl), Sherry Jones, David Scarbrough (Lugenia), and Dwight Morrison (Jan). Jan held a special place in the hearts of his many nieces and nephews and their families, all of whom lovingly knew him as “UJ.”

And, of course, Shorty, his beloved four-legged companion.

Jan was proceeded in death by his mother, Dorothy Ann McGehee Scarbrough; his father, Bill Scarbrough; and stepmother, Hilda Scarbrough; his sister, Sandra Kramer; brothers-in-law John Kramer and Lee Jones; and his wife, Claire Carter Wood.

“Jan leaves behind a lifetime of memories, a legacy of love, and countless stories that will continue to bring smiles to the faces of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.”

Pallbearers: Ward McGehee, Marvin Myers, Bill Parker, Don Davidson, Charlie Myers, Matt Williams, Joesph Addy, Clark Brandt