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Orinda Spence Obituary

Orinda Hamon Spence, 85, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2025, at her home in Cortez, Colorado. Born on August 23, 1939, in McCall, Idaho, Orinda was a spirited and engaging individual known for her love of conversation.

Orinda spent her early education in Caldwell, Idaho, attending Caldwell Senior High School, and then the University of Idaho, where she majored in English. She cherished her years as a stay-at-home mom, dedicating herself to raising her two children, Cynthia and James. Later in life, Orinda entered the workforce, taking on roles in retail sales and various positions that utilized her computer skills.

Beyond her professional life, Orinda was passionate about her hobbies. She was an avid reader and gardener, finding joy in watching her plants grow. Her artistic talents were expressed through her exquisite hand embroidery with silk ribbon and intricate beading on fabric, creating beautiful pieces that reflected her meticulous attention to detail.

Orinda leaves behind her loving husband of 63 years, Liter Spence, and their daughter, Cynthia. She was preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Hester Hamon, and her son, James.

There will be no services. Contributions in memory of Orinda can be made to For Pets' Sake in Cortez, CO. Orinda will be remembered fondly for her warmth, kindness, colorful hats, and the lively spirit she brought to every room.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Journal on Feb. 11, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Orinda Spence

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6 Entries

Debrah Spence

September 9, 2025

Orinda found me on facebook. I'm also a Spence. We foraged a connection through our love of plants and the earth. We also had a similar outlook on the purpose of life. I noticed she hadn't shared anything on my facebook page. I finally got up the nerve to check on her and saw she had passed. May her sweet spirit still surround those who knew and loved her.

Carla Weatherly

March 3, 2025

What a wonderful lady. A delight to visit with and always made me feel good when we parted company. All of this and More. Prayers and heartfelt thoughts to the family.

Michele, SongHaven Farm

February 27, 2025

Orinda was always a delight to see at the Cortez Farmers Market on Saturday mornings and her beautiful nature and fun outfits will be missed.

Jean Wang

February 24, 2025

It´s been many many years, but the entire Spence family has been huge in my life. Recently, I´ve enjoyed Orinda through Katheryn. Liter I so respect the way that Orinda handled her transition. Hopefully it gives you some peace.

Tom Vaughan

February 21, 2025

Sandy and I remember Orinda from her art work in the Mancos art co-op. She was always cheery and colorful, and we continued our friendship on Facebook after we moved away. Our condolences to her family.

Kelly Parker

February 12, 2025

Orinda was a lovely lady with all her pretty hats. She will be missed;

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