Margaret Downie-Shultz

Margaret Irene Downie – Shultz, age 76, affectionately known as “Margie,” peacefully passed away on Saturday, August 19, 2023, at 3:05 pm, in the comforting embrace of her family. She was born on June 14, 1947.

A memorial service to celebrate Margie’s life will be held at Victorious Life Church, 7459 N. IH 35 Frontage Rd, Robinson, TX 76706, on Saturday, August 26 at 10 AM, followed by a reception in her honor.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Margie’s memory can be made directly to the family.

Margie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Glendon Earl Shultz, her former husband, Richard Eugene Espin Sr, her father, John Robert Downie, her mother, Florence Irene Girard, step mother, Elsie Downie, her sister, Sharon Elizabeth Bolongie, and her brother, Dean Allen Malloch.  Also preceding her death was her cherished grandson, Joshua David King.

Margie is survived by her devoted daughter, Kim René King and her husband, James Richard, along with their children, (Joshua David King-deceased) his daughter, Ryleigh Lynn; Jonathan Dwayne King and his wife, Lindsey Michelle and their children, Avery Michelle and Liam Asher; James Daniel King and his son, James Cole; Jessica Dené King-Davis and her husband Jordan Montgomery, their children, Savanna Esther and Shiloh Montgomery; her loving daughter Melissa Ann Garza and her husband, Michael Anthony and her children, Ashley Nichole Cannon and her husband, Kirsten Michael, and their children, Isabel Grace, and Kolton Michael; Cody Lee Southerland and his wife, Alexandria Fallon, and their daughter, Harper Elizabeth; and stepdaughter Destinee Monique, her children, Damyen Elisalde and Devyn Michael Salinas. She is also survived by her son Richard Eugene Espin Jr., his wife Kari Ann, and their children, Richard Eugene Espin VI (Chip) and his wife, Ashlyn Lynn and daughter Karah Irene.  Margie’s journey began with her family relocating frequently, eventually finding her forever home in Waco, Texas, when she met and married Richard Eugene Espin Sr. in 1966. This union allowed Margie to experience the adventure of military life, exploring new horizons, and traversing the globe, including Germany, France, Russia, Israel, England, Canada and Hawaii. She was known for her resilience, adaptability and love of travel.

As a dedicated mother, Margie instilled values of faith and compassion in her children, sharing her unwavering love for Jesus Christ and the essence of life. Margie pursued an LPN nursing license, in Texas and Massachusetts, exemplifying her compassionate nature. She dedicated herself to nursing at Providence Hospital until a life-altering injury in 1995, as a result she had two unfortunate back surgeries that ultimately ended her professional endeavors. Despite these challenges, Margie’s spirit remained strong. She instilled her compassionate nature to her children by cultivating a passion for the elderly, bringing joy and companionship to nursing home residents through song and conversation and by delivering fruit baskets. She took in and nurtured homeless and abused girls, and gave them a place to stay. She developed the Believers Five, her family’s singing group that traveled the US and sang in churches. She was an avid animal lover! She raised AKC registered dogs, registered show goats, chickens, cows, horses and anything that had fur and was friendly, especially her faithful companion, Duke, a dog who mirrored her loyalty, and was with her till the very end. She loved her children and grandchildren. In all of this, she desired to demonstrate the heart of Christ.  When asked what is your greatest accomplishment? Margie responded, “my greatest accomplishment was raising my three children.”

Over the years life distanced Margie and Richard. After 30 years of marriage she parted ways with Richard. Margie found happiness again with Glen Shultz, in 2008, her husband a retired Arizona state trooper, until his passing in 2017. They lived in San Angelo. After Glen‘s death, Margie returned to Waco, where she resided until her final days. Her Godly legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren and her circle of friends, who held a special place in her heart. Margie’s indomitable spirit, kindness, and enduring love will forever be highly valued, honored, and remembered.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to all those who have offered their support and condolences during this time of remembrance. Your love and care have been deeply appreciated. The family would like to give special thanks to Victorious Life Church for hosting the services and the fellowship lunch. Anyone wishing to contribute please contact Marsha at Victorious Life Church.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Lake Shore Funeral Home.