Mrs. Marie Elizabeth Spinner

Marie Elizabeth (Henry) Spinner was born on January 7, 1924 to Wilmer B. Henry and Willie Mae (Carter) Henry. The Henry’s were blessed with five children and Marie was the eldest daughter. She leaves her brother Burnette with her memories, and she will reunite with her other siblings, John, Corrine, and Wille May who had predeceased her. Marie attended the Seminary School and attended an industrial trade school to pursue her interest in hair care and sewing. For many years one of her hobbies was making clothes and she was an excellent seamstress. Her other hobbies were reading, dancing, cooking and playing cards with members of her social club. Each month the members rotated who would host the card games. And when it was Marie’s turn, she would prepare a variety of foods for all to enjoy. She was known as an excellent cook and the dishes that she fixed were seafood gumbo, potato salad, fried chicken, pig feet, fried fish, and many other wonderful meals. She married Elrich William Murphy and from this union the couple became parents to Rita Marie. Years later she married Albert Spinner, Jr and together they raised two sons, Albert and Blair. Marie’s career was caring for others. She was a caregiver to the Livingston family and to the Clark family. Outside of her work day, she enjoyed attending church services, Bible study and at age 97, she was known as the oldest living member of Oakland Baptist Church and affectionately referred to as the mother of the Church. She was an inspiration to her family and many of her church members were happy to see her smiling face on Sundays. Ironically, her mother, Willie Mae Henry at age 95, was also lovingly referred to as the mother of the same Church prior to her passing. Marie found peace and strength by engaging God through prayer and she loved attending her weekly Bible study. She honored her covenant with God by always showing love and forgiving others for their transgressions. Two of her favorite hymns were, Blessed Assurance and I’m Goin’ Up Yonder. Her favorite scripture was, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” John 14:6. She was a civic-minded person and voted in every election. In fact, she made sure she voted to help the cause of getting #45 out of office. For many years Marie served as a poll-worker at the Voting Polls in Fairfax County. Her family takes comfort in knowing that she has transitioned and is now at peace with the Holy Spirit. In addition to her three children, Rita (Dale), Albert (Karen), Blair (Evangeline) and former daughters-in-laws Lucy and Betty, she leaves behind to cherish her memories: nine grandchildren, Monique, Andre, Dale, Donald, Blair, Corrine, Christine, Tanisha, Rita; and eight great-grandchildren. She was an Aunt and great Aunt to several nieces and nephews, cousins and many dear friends. Of exception to mention is her beloved and devoted niece, Toniette (Henry) Duncan (Lawrence). The family is most appreciative to Tayah and Jessica Sanchez for the loving care and kindness that they showed to our beloved. While we cannot list all of her friends, special recognition is given to her longtime friend Joyce Sanchez, and Marjorie Braxton, the Peterson family, Monica Reed, Wilhelmina Sarpong, and Walter Medley. Many thanks to Dan, Terry and Stephen for being helpful and concerned neighbors.

Mrs. Marie Elizabeth Spinner

January 7, 1924 - March 29, 2021

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