Spring was born in Colorado Springs, Colorado to non-theatrical parents. She was orphaned at a very early age. At age 14 she began acting professionally with the famed Elitch Garden Stock Company in Denver. A stage actress since 1900, her screen debut came with the role of 'Marmee' in the 1933 film Little Women.

Her film career began in Papa's Slay Ride (1931) in a small role. Her other films included You Can't Take It with You (1938) as Penny Sycamore, for which she received an Oscar nomination as Best Supporting Actress.

Although she became best known for playing a mother-in-law, she could play other roles as well, but it was quite difficult to imagine her playing an evil role. Aunts, grandmothers, mothers, matrons, maids and housekeepers were among the types she played. She exuded cheerfulness and optimism with her smiling face.

She did play a nasty type in Dragonwyck, but still with a smile on her face. A small woman with blonde and later gray hair, bright, smiling eyes and a bubbly demeanor she had a long and illustrious acting career.

She was married to Roy Carey Chandler from 1919-1924. They had two daughters: Lois and Phyllis but were divorced in 1924. Miss Byington never remarried. She was quite happy with her life as a TV/movie actress. She died of cancer in Hollywood, California at age 84.