Obituary of Mrs. Marie Toppin
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Marie Angela Toppin. Marie passed away peacefully on November 2, 2024, after a battle with cancer. Marie was surrounded by her children, Anthony, Keith and Barbara; her daughters-in-law, Jamie and Diane, her grandchildren, Kellen and Amanda, her sister Helen, and her nieces and nephews at the time of her passing.
Marie Toppin was born in the beautiful island of St. Vincent and the Grenadines on September 23, 1941. In 1974, Marie emigrated to Canada with her sons Anthony (Tony) Spence, and Keith (Monty) Spence, to make a better life for herself and her children.
On October 9, 1976, Marie married the love of her life, Kenrick (Ken) Toppin, and one year later they welcomed their daughter Barbara into the world.
Marie was a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt and friend. She had a remarkable way of lifting up those she spent time with and always held a joyous and positive outlook on life.
After coming to Canada Marie furthered her education by completing programs at Ryerson University, George Brown College and Centennial College. Marie devoted her life and profession to the service of others. She spent many years as a health care worker and brought joy to all those that she interacted with. After retirement, Marie spent her time travelling and enjoying life with her family and friends. She lived every day to its fullest.
Marie was an avid baker and her sweet bread was a mandatory request for all family functions and get togethers. It was so often requested that she usually had to make extra loaves for her friends to leave with after the parties.
Marie was a devout Christian and believed passionately in life after death. We have no doubt that she is seated at the banquet table with her lord and saviour Jesus Christ.
Marie was predeceased by her husband, Kenrick Toppin, her mother Vivian Spence, her father Osborne Spence, her sister Geneva (Jenny) Antrobus, her brothers Godrick, Lawrence and Conrad (John) Spence. She is survived by her children Tony Spence (Jamie), Keith Spence (Diane), Barbara Gordon (Greg); her grandchildren Kellen Spence and Amanda Spence, her siblings Helen James, Perely Spence, Arnette Spence; and her many nieces and nephews and beloved friends.
The family thanks everyone for their support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in honour of Marie to the Canadian Cancer Society.
