Community Raises $80K and Builds New Home for 81-Year-Old Memphis Woman Who Lived in Her Car

Christine Marshall, an 81-year-old Memphis woman known affectionately as "Momma," is about to move into a brand-new home — built entirely through community donations and volunteer effort after she spent four years living in her car.

Marshall had been living in her car in her own driveway on South Parkway West after her home fell into severe disrepair. She stayed in the vehicle to keep an eye on her property, unable to afford the repairs needed to make the house livable again.

When Action News 5 crews checked on her in July 2025, her story touched the hearts of viewers across Memphis and beyond. Jason Smith, a local contractor, stepped forward offering to build her a completely new home.

"There Are No Words"

Within weeks of the news story airing, a GoFundMe campaign raised nearly $80,000 from generous donors. Despite struggles with code enforcement, utility hookups, and bad weather, Smith and his team pushed forward with construction.

"It's been probably one of the craziest best experiences I've ever had. Would I do it all over again, absolutely!" said Smith. "Momma's just a joy, and it's all worth it at the end."

Marshall visited her almost-finished home in February 2026 and was overwhelmed with emotion.

"Amazing. The whole… There are no words," she said. "It lets me know that there is still people that care. I am blessed."

Southern Hospitality at Its Finest

Smith expects Momma will be resting her head in her new home sometime in March 2026 — ending years of hardship with the warmth of Southern hospitality at its finest.

"I'm grateful to be the one that they care about," Marshall said through tears. At 81, she's proof that it's never too late for a fresh start — especially when a community rallies around you.