Maranatha Baptist University Mourns the Passing of Chancellor and Former President Dr. Marty Marriott
WATERTOWN, Wis., April 20, 2026—Maranatha Baptist University announces with deep sorrow the passing of Dr. Marty Marriott, chancellor and former president of the university. A faithful servant of Christ and steadfast leader within churches and higher education, Dr. Marriott’s life and ministry left an indelible mark on MBU and on countless lives around the world.
Funeral arrangements are as follows:
Thursday, April 23 | 4-7 PM | Visitation | Calvary Baptist Church, Watertown, WI
Friday, April 24 | 11 AM-12 PM | Visitation | Calvary Baptist Church, Watertown, WI
Friday, April 24 | 1 PM | Memorial Service | Calvary Baptist Church, Watertown, WI
Friday, April 24 | 3:30 PM | Graveside Service | Maranatha Baptist University, Watertown, WI
Dr. Marriott served as Maranatha’s fifth president from 2010 to 2023 and as chancellor from 2023 until his passing in 2026. His leadership was defined by humility, conviction, and a clear vision for training leaders for the local church “To the Praise of His Glory.” Under his direction, Maranatha strengthened its biblical foundations while expanding academic opportunities through initiatives such as the Bible and Church Ministries Scholarship and the growth of online and distance learning programs that have reached students globally.
Before his presidency, Dr. Marriott pastored for more than three decades, faithfully shepherding churches in Tennessee, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. His ministry was characterized by a passion for preaching, discipleship, and missions—traits that marked his entire life of service to the Lord.
Dr. Matthew Davis, MBU’s CEO, stated, “Dr. Marriott embodied the servant leadership that Maranatha exists to cultivate. His unwavering faith, steadfast love for his family, and deep devotion to Christ inspired all who knew him. His legacy is one of commitment to the Lord, grace in trials, and living for eternity. In addition to being a mentor and leader, Dr. Marriott was my friend. And I will forever thank the Lord for his legacy in my own life. I will miss him greatly.”
Current MBU president Dr. David Anderson added, “Few men have influenced Maranatha’s history as profoundly as Dr. Marriott. His leadership advanced our mission while keeping our focus firmly on Christ and His Word. We thank God for his life and for the eternal fruit of his ministry.”
Dr. Marriott is survived by his wife, Miriam (“Mrs. M”), their three children—Rebecca (Bryan) Brock, Rachel (Joshua) Roberts, and David (Emiley) Marriott—all MBU alumni serving in full-time ministry—and twelve beloved grandchildren. Together, Dr. and Mrs. Marriott modeled joyful, Christ-centered partnership and hospitality that deeply enriched the MBU community.
Dr. Marriott once said, “We advance forward, seeking to be good and faithful servants. And we serve in hope, believing that lasting eternal fruit will result from our efforts.” His life reflected that very hope—a life lived fully for Christ and His glory.
About Maranatha Baptist University
Founded in 1968, Maranatha Baptist University exists to develop leaders for ministry in the local church and the world “To the Praise of His Glory.” The university offers over 50 academic programs and serves students through on-campus, online, and graduate studies.