Mrs. Marguerite Spence Whitaker, matriarch of a sprawling clan scattered across the United States, passed away quietly in the early afternoon of December 1, 2025 at her home. Born November 3, 1922, she had just celebrated her 103rd birthday. Her husband of 73 years, Herbert L. Whitaker, Sr. died in 2014. She is survived by her three children and their spouses, Herbert L. Whitaker, Jr., his wife Susan, John W. Whitaker, his wife Christy and Judith W. MacGregor and her husband Gregg, as well as nine grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Marguerite was the eldest of four children of John and Nell Spence. Her brother Marshall Spence passed away in 1987 and sister June Rammel passed away in 2024. Sister Mildred Anderson currently lives in Virginia Beach.

After her husband returned from World War II combat service in the Far East, the couple started Mechanical Service Co. Marguerite was the small firm’s Chief Financial Officer before that term even existed, a skilled manager of the affairs of the business and a shrewd negotiator on its behalf. She served in that capacity for more than fifty years before retiring.

Marguerite was an active member of Thalia Trinity Presbyterian Church for many years before moving and transferring her membership to King’s Grant Presbyterian Church.

Marguerite had an active social life at Atlantic Shores, as a much beloved participant in a number of dinner groups, game nights and even acting in a play. She enjoyed frequent visits from her children and grandchildren from as far away as California and Nevada and, in earlier years, returned the favor. Prior to her husband’s passing, she was a frequent and enthusiastic world traveler, with her favorite destinations including England, France, Spain, Africa, Brazil and Turkey.

In the last few years, Marguerite was in the constant care of Tina and Elizabeth, two Angels to whom she was “Nana.” Their patient, loving and professional care gave her family great comfort. They helped to coordinate frequent visits and regular FaceTime calls from California and Nevada.
Miss Marguerite was a bright, loving woman whom dozens of people of all ages called “friend.” While her warmth and wit will be sorely missed, her impact on their lives will be eternal.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at King’s Grant Presbyterian Church located at 745 Little Neck Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23452.