Marilyn Spence (nee Starr)

Marilyn Spence (Starr), 76, of Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026.

Marilyn was born on May 10, 1949, in Sandy Bay First Nation to Russell Starr and Suzanne Beaulieu.

Marilyn is lovingly remembered by her companion James Flett of Winnipeg; her children, Charlene (Derek) and Russell (Shasta); and her precious grandsons, Brennon and Tarren (Ridhima). She will also be deeply missed by her sisters, Linda (Gene), Helen (Douglas), Jeanette (Les), Cathy (James), and Lorita (Elvis); her sister-in-law, Lillian; her aunts, Deanna, Mary (Dave), and Hazel (Bill); her many special nieces and nephews; her cousins; extended family; close friends; and colleagues.

She was predeceased by her father, Russell Starr; her mother, Suzanne Starr; her brother, Angus Starr; her nephews, Charles Starr, Raymond Spence, and Timothy Richard; and her niece, Debra Roulette.

Marilyn devoted over 40 years of her life to teaching in her home community of Sandy Bay First Nation. Teaching was her passion—she truly loved her work and the children she taught, lovingly referring to them as “my kids.” She retired in 2022, but her love for teaching never faded. She later returned to the classroom in Gambler First Nation, where she taught young children the Ojibway language, something she was incredibly proud to share.

Marilyn had a beautiful soul. She was ambitious, kind-hearted, compassionate, and humble. She cherished time spent with her close family, creating memories at birthday celebrations, relaxing in the pool, enjoying family BBQs, traveling whenever possible, and faithfully cheering on her loved ones at hockey games. She was an avid fan and spectator whenever she had the chance.

Marilyn had a strong faith, which she developed during her nine years in Residential School, and it remained an important part of her life.

The family would like to thank all the health care staff who took special care of mom.

Marilyn will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. 

Visitation and Viewing will take place at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel on Monday, January 26, 2026 from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Funeral Service will be held at Good Shepherd Roman Catholic Church on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at 1:00 pm, with viewing prior to the service. A feast will follow at the church after the service, prepared by her sisters and loved ones. There will be no interment.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com