Suvechha Sarkar
Patrina R. Marshall still remembers the day she got the call from the authorities and arrived at her mother, Patricia Ann Spivey’s, home in Houston, Texas, on July 28, 2019. At the scene, she discovered that her mother was no longer alive. As Patrina searched for answers, she learned that Patricia’s husband, Renard Spivey, had reportedly shot her and claimed it was an accident. CBS’ ’48 Hours: Deputy Spivey on Trial’ sheds spotlight on the heartbreaking case and the trial, which ultimately acquitted Renard of murder in December 2023. Additionally, the episode features an emotional interview with Patrina, where she discusses the devastating impact her mother’s loss had on her life.
Patrina Marshall is Thriving as a Government Worker and Business Owner
Patricia Ann Spivey was just 15 years old when she welcomed her daughter, Patrina R. Marshall, into the world sometime in 1982. Patrina had always received immeasurable support and love from her mother. Patricia also cheered for her daughter at every step of her life, whether it be in her career or personal milestones. So, when Patrina lost her mother forever on July 28, 2019, she felt her world was crumbling. She recalled, “I think, uh — I don’t know. Something really weird happened to me. … I just kind of shut down, and everything just became really numb. … I still have not cried.”
Patrina further expressed her grief, stating, “My mom was still important. Like, she was important to me… I just miss that unconditional love. I have no anchor, like she’s gone. … So she was my anchor. (emotional) Yeah, so yeah.” Before the profound loss rocked her life, she was completely dedicated to building her own unique professional path. After graduating from high school, she pursued higher education at Stephen F. Austin State University. Eventually, Patrina graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services. She began her career in December 2012 as a Digital Inclusion employee for the City of Houston, Texas.
As of writing, Patrina is also thriving as an Administrative Specialist for the City of Houston. Furthermore, she runs her own custom T-shirt venture, Royal Designs by Trina, where individuals can purchase items for personal use and businesses. In May 2025, Patrina revealed that she had taken a loan for university and, after working for the government for 12 years, finally repaid her entire student loan. Besides that, she is following in her mother’s footsteps and often takes part in various runs. Some of those runs include her participation in the Run Houston Clear Lake in May 2023 and the Run Houston Race Series in December 2023.
Patrina Remains Surrounded by Her Family as She Navigates Life in Houston
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Patrina leads a life grounded in her family. From a very young age, she maintained an unshakeable bond with her mother, Patricia. However, the loss of her mother left a significant void in her heart. Even today, Patrina reminisces about how her mother was the glue that always kept their family together. She misses Patricia every moment and continues to express her grief by often sharing pictures with her mother. Fortunately, Patrina receives immense support from her family. She is especially close to her sister, LaQuana Williams, and her cousins, Veronica Green, Sharon Hutson, Dawn Miles, and Elena DripiNswagu Miller.
Currently residing in Houston, Texas, Patrina often loves spending quality time with her beloved nieces. From taking her nieces to the Color Factory to celebrating their birthdays, she always ensures they make lifelong memories. Another big part of her world used to revolve around her pup, Queen Zenobia Jackson. However, she faced a massive heartbreak when Zenobia sadly passed away on January 22, 2023. While pouring her sadness into words, Patrina wrote, “Zenobia will be missed… she helped me through depression and other hurdles in my life… I will never replace her, and she will always be my forever doggie Queen Zenobia Jackson.”
As a dedicated fitness enthusiast, Patrina always prioritizes attending the gym to maintain a strict fitness regimen. In her free time, Patrina often sets out to cycle through the streets of Houston. Moreover, her faith significantly guides her through the darkest moments of her life. From time to time, Patrina loves visiting the museum to soak in the rich cultural history of her country. Whenever she gets the chance, she takes self-care trips to different corners of her country. Till now, she has explored the incredible cityscapes of Atlanta, Georgia, and Chicago, Illinois. Despite the busy pace of her life, Patrina continues to hold the memories of her dearest mother closest to her heart.
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