Marilyn Louise Spence Obituary (2023)

Marilyn Louise (Stull) Spence went from the arms of her beloved husband, Donald James Spence, into the arms of Jesus on September 19, 2023, at Cottage in the Meadow, in Yakima, Washington. Marilyn was born in Yakima, on May 24, 1937, to Neal Clifton Stull and Marion Louise (Gredell) Stull. Marilyn attended Highland High School 9-11th grade in Cowiche, Washington. She finished her last year of high school in the top 10% of her class, which was the first class to graduate at West Valley High School. Marilyn married Jerrie VanderHouwen in 1956, and had three children, Debbie, Laurie and Tim. They divorced in 1970. In April 1970, Marilyn met the love of her life, Donald James Spence, on a blind date, set up by their exes families. It was love at first sight and they were married on August 15, 1970. Don added two more daughters to the family, Stephanie and Laurie Ann. In 1972, their son, Randall, was born. In 1996, Don and Marilyn lost their daughter, Laurie Ann, to juvenile diabetes. Over their 53 years together, Don built Marilyn two homes and a life full of love. Marilyn was always thankful for the life Don had given her, and continued to be grateful for his faithfulness and undying love. Marilyn was a talented and accomplished artist. She loved many things, but particularly enjoyed painting, drawing, doll houses, and handmade dollhouse accessories, earrings, Putz houses, and crafting together her own elaborate cards. She spent most of her time creating and gave pieces of her heart with each creation. Marilyn belonged to the Friendship Doll Club where she made many close and long-lasting friends. Don and Marilyn attended Community Alliance Church, where Marilyn earned the nickname of "Hugs." For several years, she called each household from the church every Friday, just to lend an ear, pass on some joy, and offer prayer. Marilyns love for her friends and family was immense. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren will miss her creativity, silliness, encouragement, stability, acceptance, popcorn balls, conversations, doodling, spunk, quirky personality, and can-do attitude. Marilyn had a heart bigger than most. She was a very special lady that left you feeling valued and wanted. Marilyn would always say "I love you I love you to pieces!" Marilyn is survived by her loving husband, Donald James Spence, brother, Stan Stull, her children, Debbie VanderHouwen, Laurie Steward, Tim and Zandi VanderHouwen, Stephanie and Jerome Persinger, Randall and Jennifer Spence, 13 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. Marilyn is preceded in death by her parents, Neil and Marion Stull, mother-in-law, Ione Layman, brother, Lonnie Stull, sister-in-law, Sandee Stull, daughter, Laurie Ann Spence, and grandson, Jason VanderHouwen. 1 Corinthians 16:14 Let all you do be done in Love. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at 2:00pm, at the Community Alliance Church (14890 Tieton Dr., Yakima). Marilyn is buried at West Hills Memorial Park. Shaw & Sons Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.shawandsons.com. Celebration of Life Community Alliance Church Saturday, October 28, 2023 2:00 PM 14890 Tieton Drive Yakima, Washington 98908