Marsha Lorraine Spence

Marsha Lorraine Spence, a beacon of love and creativity, passed away peacefully on February 29, 2024, at her home in Bell Buckle, Tennessee, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 12, 1950, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Marsha lived a life that was as vibrant and beautiful as the gardens she so lovingly tended. Marsha, known affectionately to her friends and family as just that, was a woman whose kindness and loving nature left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She was the beloved mother of Christy (Brian) Gaither and Cliff (Kimberly) Spence; the cherished daughter of Lora York; the treasured sister of Terry (Pam) York; and the doting grandmother and great-grandmother to her adored grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Marsha's memory will be forever held in the hearts of her grandchildren Haylie (Chase) Spence-Dial, Hope Spence, Hayden Spence, Lexie Spence, Tyler Gaither, Trent Gaither, Josie Crocker, Noah Watson, Kassidy (Dylan) Eley; and her great-grandchildren Mila Hughes, Mona Hughes, Kohen Trice, Wren Dial, and Colson Eley. She also leaves behind her caring nephews Kevin, Greg (Jackie), Nicholas York, and her niece Angel York and many lifelong friends. Marsha was preceded in death by her loving husband of 56 years, Jerry Spence; her brother Roger York; her father Leslie York; and her niece Mandy York. After graduating from high school, Marsha pursued her passion for beauty and obtained her beauty license from Beauty School. She went on to have a successful career with Aramark, where she dedicated 20 years of service before retiring. Marsha's work ethic and commitment to excellence were only outshined by the warmth and care she brought to her colleagues and clients alike. Marsha's interests were as varied as they were heartfelt. She was a pillar of her community, attending Christiana Church of Christ and sharing her love for the Lord through her actions and words. As someone who loved hosting family gatherings, Marsha's home was always filled with laughter, love, and the irresistible aroma of her cooking. She found joy in traveling and seeing God's creation, a testament to her adventurous spirit and appreciation for the world's beauty. Creativity flowed through Marsha's veins; she was an avid crafter, an enthusiastic player of cards with her friends and mother on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and a skilled seamstress. She enjoyed scrapbooking with her daughter, which allowed her to preserve precious family memories. Her garden was a testament to her nurturing soul, and her bowling and clogging were expressions of her playful spirit. Her knitting provided warmth and comfort to the littlest members of her community, as she lovingly created blankets and caps for the NICU units at local hospitals. In the words of Mother Teresa, "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." This sentiment captures the essence of Marsha's life; she did everything with great love. Her legacy is one of kindness, creativity, and a boundless capacity to give. Marsha's life was a testament to the impact one individual can have on the lives of many. Her love was a sanctuary, her kindness a bridge, and her creativity a legacy that will continue to inspire. As we say goodbye to Marsha Lorraine Spence, we celebrate the extraordinary life she led and the countless ways she made our world a brighter, more beautiful place. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Marsha Lorraine Spence

July 12, 1950 - February 29, 2024