Roy Marilyn Bitton Speas, 93, died January 25, 2023, at Horizon Care Center in Eckert, Colorado. Marilyn was born November 26, 1929, to Ben and Anna Bitton of West Weber, Utah, and was one of eight children.
Marilyn was a farm girl and took great pride for the long hours she spent assisting her dad working in the fields during World War II. One of her favorite memories was sitting on a ditch bank with her dad, eating just-picked tomatoes that Ben would pick and wipe off on his old overalls.
Marilyn also supported the war effort during World War II by working on the B-17 Flying Fortress at Hill Air Force Base, and was a real-life Rosy the Riveter.
In 1959, Marilyn became a full-time mom after her son Clay was born. The Speas home became the gathering spot for all the kids in the neighborhood. Freshly baked cookies and her famous chocolate cinnamon rolls were always available. She also became a shuttle service as she took Clay and his friends lizard hunting, fishing, camping, and anything else active boys liked to do. She was a loving, nurturing, and when needed, a stern mother.
Marilyn was a founding member of Roy Christian Church where she worshiped God for over 50 years. She was the spiritual head of the home, ensuring that her son grew to love and respect the Lord. Mom practiced her faith by serving others through regular visits to nursing homes, cooking meals for those in need, and visiting shut-ins.
The family thanks the staff and residents at Horizon Care Center for the wonderful care and love for Marilyn. Additional thanks go to Roy Christian Church which has served as Marilyn’s spiritual anchor for the past 60 years, and in particular Pastor James Sayer, who stayed in touch with her after she moved to Colorado.
Surviving is her son, Calvin “Clay” Speas and daughter-in-law Jan Speas of Delta, Colorado; two grandchildren, Rand Speas and Rachel Shover; and four great grandchildren, Ryan and Rory Speas and Amelia and Cameron Shover, all of Grand Junction, Colorado. Marilyn also has one surviving sister, Vera Hulbert, of San Jose, California. Preceding her in death was her husband, Walton âMonteã Speas, and grandson, Ryan Clay Speas.
A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 4, 2023, at Roy Christian Church, 4347 S. 1900 W., Roy, Utah. Following the service the church will host a luncheon with a Denver Bronco theme, Marilyn’s favorite football team. Interment will be at the Henefer Cemetery next to her beloved husband, Monte.
