Dr. Marion Spellman: Our Champion

Dr. Marion Mattie Spellman, also known as Dr. Spellman, transitioned from this temporary life to her eternal home in glory in the early morning hours of Monday, October 30, 2023, at the age of 80 in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. She was born on March 9, 1943, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Dr. Spellman was an extraordinary individual whose life was dedicated to serving and uplifting those in need. She is survived by her beloved husband, Bishop Harold Spellman, son Frank P. Coleman, daughter-in-law Melissa Coleman, granddaughter Katrina Long, and spouse Kareem Long niece Jacqueline Pegues, Jr. and nephew Ian Pegues, son Toby Murray and grandson Cassan Murrary, sister Lori Curry and brother-in-law Andre' Curry. She is also survived by her nieces Amber Dawn Curry and Quenna Curry, and great-niece Anika Curry.

She was preceded in death by her father, Ivrie Pegues, Sr., Step-father Irvin Bridges, mother Margaret Bridges, brother Ivrie Pegues, Jr. and sister-in-law Jacqueline Pegues, Sr., and nephew Judah Andre' Curry and Quinton M. Pegues.

Dr. Spellman was a loving wife of 42 years to Bishop Harold Spellman. Their strong bond and shared commitment to their faith were evident in their partnership both in life and in ministry. She worshipped and served as Co-Pastor at Peniel Praise Community Church, where she found solace and strength in her faith. Her spiritual journey was an integral part of her life and guided her actions and decisions.

She received her education at Swissvale Elementary and Swissvale High School in Pittsburgh, PA. She received a Doctorate of Humanities Degree from The Institute of International Studies, Alexandria, VA and a Doctorate of Divinity Degree from Saint Thomas Christian College, Jacksonville, FL. She also earned the credential of Exhorter from the Church of God, Cleveland, TN and certification as a Licensed Pastoral Clinical Specialist from the Church of God Chaplains Commission. She believed in the importance of education and used her knowledge to empower and inspire others.

Dr. Spellman's incredible journey was marked by unwavering dedication to the cause of addiction treatment and recovery. Her vision and passion were the driving forces behind the establishment of Peniel Residential Drug/Alcohol Treatment Center over 43 years ago resulting in countless thousands of lives being restored and impacted through the ministry of Peniel.

With just thirty-five cents and a Word from God, Dr. Spellman started Peniel in 1981 and she served as the Founding President and CEO until the time of her death. Her compassion for the hurting and broken has been evident from the very beginning. She has always been consumed with a clear vision of creating a place where those struggling with addiction could at last find hope and healing. Dr. Marion Spellman's memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her. Her dedication to wholeheartedly serving the Lord and to helping others has left an enduring legacy of hope and healing that will persist for generations to come.

Under Dr. Spellman's leadership, Peniel has blossomed into a sprawling sanctuary of recovery, embracing individuals in need with open arms and an open heart. She was a true visionary who whole-heartedly believed that every person, regardless of their struggles, deserves a chance at redemption.

Beyond Peniel's walls, Dr. Spellman's influence continued to reach far and wide— she was widely known as a dynamic speaker, an advocate, a mentor, an author and a voice of hope for countless under represented individuals. As a collaborator, a mentor and a friend, Dr. Spellman's example and leadership have inspired both individuals and organizations to come together in support of those in need. Her passion for spreading the love of God touched the lives of many and her vision and dedication continue to guide and inspire those who carry on the work that she initiated.

Dr. Marion Spellman will forever be remembered for her unwavering commitment to serving others and for her legacy of compassion, empowerment and vision that will forever inspire and guide us all. We honor her incredible journey and we celebrate her as our faithful champion.