Marvin Wayne Spivey, 84, of Temple, Texas, passed away on December 7, 2025. Born on October 2, 1941 in Rosebud, he graduated from Rosebud High School, earning academic honors and All-District recognition for the Rosebud Black Panthers.
He received a full-ride academic and athletic scholarship to Rice University, where he played football and graduated with honors June 9, 1966. Five days later, he entered the United States Air Force, serving at Brooks Air Force Base and supporting early U.S. space programs through aerospace medical research. Marvin married Nancy Lou Simonton on January 7, 1967, in Temple, Texas, and completed his Reserve service in 1972. He continued his education with an additional degree from University of Houston in journalism, where he was a member of the Sigma Delta Chi, journalism society.
Marvin had a distinguished career as an outdoor writer and editor. He served as outdoor editor of The Highlander, later edited Texas Fisherman, and, after its 1991 merger with Texas Fish & Game, became editor of Texas Fish & Game Magazine and North American Magazine, a national publication. He received numerous honors from the Texas Outdoor Writers Association. Upon retirement, he worked at the VA as a transportation coordinator for medical staff.
Photography was a lifelong passion. Marvin documented every adventure and family event, and his legendary slide shows left cherished memories for all who saw them.
Marvin and Nancy lived in various cities in the United States but considered Granite Shoals their home base before recently returning to Temple, Texas. They traveled extensively, with Marvin especially fond of northern Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park, and most of all, Rocky Mountain National Park.
Family was at the center of his life, where he was affectionately known as “Uncle Marvin”. He cherished his wife Nancy from the day they met in Houston, they were soul mates and best friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Florence (Kemp) Spivey, and his brother, Larry Spivey.
He is survived by his wife Nancy Spivey; his sister Peggy (Spivey) Barrett; his brother Ronnie Spivey and wife Dana; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, along with cousins and in-laws.
“Uncle” Marvin will be remembered as an expert fisherman, historian, avid football fan, and dedicated hobby photographer—but most of all for his love of family and all the kids in his life. His legacy lives on through his family, his writing, and the many lives he inspired.
Uncle Marvin. The Legend
