KURE BEACH — Timothy Scott Markley, age 60, of Kure Beach, North Carolina, passed away suddenly on June 21, 2025, while biking the Tour de Blueberry annual charity ride in Willard, North Carolina. Born in Portland, Maine, Tim was the beloved son of John Joseph Markley and Florence Mabel Markley.
Before pursuing his educational career, Tim proudly served his country as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division, exemplifying the courage and leadership that would define his life’s work. Following his military service, Tim dedicated himself to education, serving students and communities across multiple states with unwavering commitment and passion. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in History from UNC-Pembroke, followed by a Master’s in Administration from Fayetteville State University, and completed his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University.
His distinguished career in education began as a teacher at E.E. Smith High School, where his natural leadership abilities quickly became evident. He advanced to Assistant Principal and then Principal at Douglas Byrd High School, where he had a lasting impact on numerous students and faculty. Tim’s expertise and dedication led him to serve as Superintendent of the White Mountains Regional School District in New Hampshire, Superintendent of Catawba County Schools, and Superintendent of New Hanover County Schools. His passion for education extended into higher learning, where he served as an Adjunct Professor at UNCW, Gardner Webb University, and the University of New Hampshire. Most recently, he served as the Senior Director of Student Defense at Keith Altman Law Firm, where he continued his lifelong mission of advocating for students.
Throughout his career, Tim was known for his integrity, innovative thinking, and genuine care for every student under his guidance. He believed deeply in the transformative power of education and worked tirelessly to ensure that all students had access to quality learning opportunities.
Tim was a man of boundless energy and joy. He deeply loved his wife, Stephanie Jarrell Markley, who was his partner in every sense—his biggest supporter, travel companion, and best friend. He cherished time with his son, John Joseph Markley II, and his fiancé, Sydnie Lail, as well as his stepchildren, James Robert Baltezegar and his wife Hailey, Trishia Holmes and her husband Oliver, and Megan Collado and her husband Juan. Tim found immeasurable joy in being “PaPa” to his beloved grandchildren. He was proud of each of them and treasured every moment spent together.
A true lover of the outdoors, Tim embraced every opportunity to be active and adventurous. Whether running, cycling, paddleboarding, hiking, or playing tennis, he found peace and inspiration in movement and nature. He was an avid member of the Cape Fear Cyclists and participated in many charity and group rides. He also had a special gift for hospitality—bringing people together through meals, laughter, and meaningful conversations. Hosting gatherings for friends and family was one of his great joys.
Tim was a faithful member of Kure Beach Baptist Church, where he served in multiple capacities and found strength in his faith. His commitment to service extended beyond education into his community, where he served on many committees, most recently with the United Way and the Kure Beach Marketing Committee. His dedication to improving the lives of others was evident in all aspects of his life.
Tim is survived by his loving wife, Stephanie; his son, John Joseph Markley II, and fiancé Sydnie Lail; his stepchildren, James and Hailey Baltezegar, Trishia and Oliver Holmes, and Megan and Juan Collado; his sister, Tanya Bradbury, and husband Dennis; and his grandchildren, August, Nora, Ansley Kate, Gentry James, Adley, and Theodore. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Joseph and Florence M. Markley.
Tim’s legacy lives on through the thousands of students whose lives he touched, the educators he mentored, and the communities he served. His dedication to excellence in education, his adventurous spirit, and his compassionate leadership will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Tim’s life reminds us to lead with purpose, to serve others, to find joy in every ride, every sunrise, and every moment.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution in Tim’s memory to Nevus Outreach or Kure Beach First Baptist Church, 208 S. 6th Street, Kure Beach, NC 28449. Psalm 23
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