In Loving Memory of Marsha Elaine Durham
Marsha Elaine Durham
September 1, 1937 – December 14, 2025
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Marsha Elaine (Coupland) Durham, who passed away on December 14, 2025, at the age of 88.
Marsha will lovingly be remembered by her children, Brad Tye (Christy), Curtis Tye (Jennifer), Allison Jasin (Myles), and her seven cherished grandchildren, Conner, Haley, Keaton, Aidan, Emily, Olivia, and Phoenix, who were the light of her life. She is also survived by her brother, Bryan Coupland (pre-deceased Del), as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends who adored her.
Marsha was predeceased by her beloved parents, Garnet and Esmee Coupland, by her devoted husband, Ivan Durham, with whom she shared a deep and enduring partnership and by the father of her children, Bruce Tye.
Marsha loved her family intensely and without reservation. She was fiercely proud of each of them and took great joy in their accomplishments, interests, and individuality. A devoted grandmother and loyal friend, she cultivated deep and lasting relationships and was admired by many who were fortunate to know her.
A patron of the arts, Marsha embraced artistic expression through her fashion, hobbies, and creative pursuits. She carried a “spicy” spirit — bold, witty, and unapologetically herself — paired with a genuine love for life and an intense curiosity about the world around her. She delighted in learning, conversation, and new experiences, and her presence brought colour, laughter, and insight wherever she went.
Early in her adult life, Marsha worked as a nurse, a profession that reflected her compassion, strength, and commitment to caring for others — qualities that defined her throughout her life. Marsha spent many years as a craftsperson, sharing her creativity and insight through professional magazine writing, the creation of her own newsletter, and teaching writing and cooking courses at college.
Marsha’s legacy is one of love, creativity, curiosity, and connection. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.
As a cancer survivor, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society in place of flowers.
Marsha will be very missed, she was a devoted mother, stepmom, grandmother, step-grandma, and friend. I count it a privilege to have been a small part of her life. My sister Jen married her son Curtis …And that was the connection. I appreciated how loving and kind she always was toward my sis and her daughter Emily. Her zest for life, her easy laughter and smile. She had a knack for making the people around her feel warm and important to her. She was talented and interesting. She had an energy about her that was attractive … I will miss her.
Grandma Marsha had such a warm heart and kind spirit that lit up every room she entered. I will forever cherish the moments we spent together, the songs we sang, the stories she told, and the laughs we shared.
My deepest condolences for you all. I have the honor to work with Brad, Marsha’s beloved son and grateful that he shared her with me. Family first then work. Alway remember with each passing day you are one day closer to seeing her again in eternity. I am lifting the Tye, Coupland, and Durham families in my prayers to comfort you in your sorrow and through the holiday and into the New Year. Psalm 147:3 (God heals the brokenhearted).
I knew Marsha in my early years raising a family, as she was also in the same family position. We met in the neighbourhood and began enjoying what life had to offer. Marsha was keen on learning anything that life offered: various sports such as tennis, racquetball and the like. She enjoyed life and the people around her – anytime enjoying their company. Life was for enjoyment and laughter.
We adored our sweet (and spicy) Auntie Marsha, and we will miss her dearly. We will never forget her infectious laughter. – Danny (nephew)