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Larry Spence Obituary

SMS Larry Thomas Spence (US Air Force Ret.), 79, passed away Tuesday, May 1, 2018. Born in Wachapreague, VA, he has been a resident of Hampton for 32 years. Larry retired from the US Air Force in 1987 after 29 years, which included service during the Vietnam War. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hampton, and the Knights of Columbus Council # 511 where he was a 2nd Degree Knight. Larry was preceded in death by his son, Terry. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Julie J. Spence; children and their spouses: Sandra Little (Greg), James (Debbie) Larry Jr., (Debbie) and daughter-in-law Brenda Spence; and seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 2-3:30 Sunday at Berceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions in Hampton. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11:00 AM Monday, May 7, 2018 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hampton by Rev. Walter C. Barrett. Interment with full military honors will be at 3:00 PM Monday, in Albert G. Horton Jr Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations to go to the Disabled American Veterans, Peninsula Chapter 6, 913 Aberdeen Rd., Hampton, VA 23666 Arrangements are by Berceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions, 2609 Cunningham Dr. in Hampton, 757-825-8070, Please visit berceusefuneralhome.com for an extended obituary.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Daily Press on May 4, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Larry Spence

Sponsored by Berceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions - Hampton.

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Steve Bradley

June 17, 2019

Just found out that Larry ( or as I knew him, Senior Master Sergeant Spence) has passed. My first encounter with Larry was not good. I was a young airman in the Airforce and was about to be kicked out for missing appointments. Larry took me out between the hangers and after a brief talk, back handed me right off my feet. Well, that's exactly what I needed he saved my career and I retired after 22 years. Larry was without a doubt one of the best supervisors I had. I will always be grateful to him and have very fond memories of my time at Langley AFB with SMS Spence. Rest in peace my friend. Many thanks for all of lifes lessons you taught me. MSGT (RET) Steve Bradley

Margie Ziolkowski Birrenkott

May 9, 2018

Julie. Bless you and your family with Larry's passing.
I heard from our cousin Kenny Bloch. I do remember all the fun times with all the cousins...especially your dad's farm.
Peace...your cousin Margie
(Joe and Adeline daughter.)

Ken Bloch

May 9, 2018

Julie, sorry for your loss. I'm glad I met Larry. He was a nice guy. Although we only seen each other a few times. I'll try to look you up again when I come back to Va. which should be next summer.
Your cuz, Kenny Bloch.

Christine Bacon

May 8, 2018

Julie, I'm so grateful for the little time we got to spend with you and Larry playing cards and learning about our family. Larry was such a kind man when we hung out. I'm so sorry that you must now be alone since he's gone to the Lord but I'm so happy for him to finally be receiving his reward. May you both be covered in grace. Christine and Dan Bacon

Sean Moran

May 7, 2018

Larry...rest in peace. You will be missed by your fellow Knights. You made my Bingo nights a little more bearable! Julie...sorry for your loss.

ROBERT W.& LEORA J. BROCK

May 5, 2018

Another of America's hero's who answered the call of duty in defense of our nation, and one of Hampton's outstanding citizens has left us . . . left us with many many fond memories which will keep him "alive" in our memories forever . . . mine are chatting with him on the flight-line at his work, bowling in the same league, spending time "catching up" when running into each other at the commissary . . . my wife and I extend our deep heartfelt sympathy to ALL or you who loved Larry . . . Best of luck to you all

Thomas Jarvis

May 5, 2018

Working with you at LAFB was a pleasure. Your can do attitude,perseverance and personality were extraordinary. A true friend.

Lennie Core

May 4, 2018

Larry will be missed by the Wachapreague folks. A great kind hearted man.

Prayers for the family.

Mark Barnes

May 4, 2018

Mr. Spence was a true legend! Loved sharing stories...and they were awesome to hear. He was also old school...did not like lazy and would get in some tail if you didn't act right! He was also extremely caring. What a loss, however there are many fond memories we can all hold onto. RIP sir...and many prayers for all family and friends.

YVETTE ALBAUGH

May 3, 2018

Mr Spence was always a joy to chat with and always had the best stories. First starting my Air Force career was scary, but knowing a caring and warm hearted soul made it easier to deal with being away from loved ones. You truly meet exceptional and memorable people in your life... Mr Spence was one of them! Prayers for your family and friends. A legend will be missed! RIP.

Pat Hart

May 3, 2018

I have known Mr. Spence (Larry) all my life, went to grade school, high school and his uncle married my sister. So, we were very well acquainted. I loved Larry, he was a kind soul and he loved his family. Much love to all of you.
Pat Hart

Mary Jane Wilson

May 3, 2018

Larry grew up with my sister, Pat Hart, and me in Wachapreague. He was like another brother to us, and we loved him very much, although we weren't always good to him and sent him home crying when we got tired of playing with him. Larry had a unique sense of humor and a heart filled with love and loyalty to all his old friends. We could not communicate for years and pick up where we left off. I know how much he loved Julie and what good care she took of him. He often mentioned his appreciation for her. He loved all his children and looked forward to seeing them. When we were in HS at Painter he was our best male friend and we loved for those of us from Wachapreague to get together. They were fun days. He will be sadly missed, not only by his family, but by his many friends.

Clountz Dobbs

May 2, 2018

It was a pleasure and experience working and knowing Mr. Spence. Rare are those cut from the same cloth as him. We have lost a fellow warrior in a day, but thank you Mr. Spence for the years of memories of you that we will never lose. I'll buy a round, when we meet again.

Jack Gladden

May 2, 2018

Larry and I grew up together in Wachapreague, Va. We played HS football together at Central HS. He was our place kicker, a ferocious lineman, and won All-Eastern Shore honors. We played baseball together: he did a great job of handling the toughest infield position, third base. We earned summer money in competition cutting grass. He lived next door. He was proud of his Air Force career.

Larry cherished our high school class friendships, never missing a reunion to my knowledge. Larry called me recently. He was determined he would attend the next one in August 2018. We had a great conversation. I think he called to say goodbye.

All those who were privileged to know him as he grew older came to appreciate his oversized heart and devout friendship. We will all miss him.

Wyvonne Sitgraves

May 2, 2018

Mr. Spence you were amazing. Many thanks for your mentorship, wisdom, and as mentioned, even a hug when needed. Blessings to the family during this time of loss. You will be missed; R.I.P. my dear friend.

Jim Boyle

May 2, 2018

Worked with you many years Mr Spence. We taught each other a lot. You will be missed. Prayer to Mrs Spence, Family and friends.

Langston Bland

May 2, 2018

Thank you for your service and your continued love you displayed to everyone you've mentored. You will be truly missed

Luther Bruce

May 2, 2018

My deepest sympathies for your loss. Larry Sr. was a man that has left an amazing legacy in his family. Thank you, sir.

Condolences,

Lisa Crawford

May 1, 2018

To the family my sincere condolences.
Mr. Spence was a wonderful person. He mentored so many of us Langley Supply troops. The conversations, training and love he showed will be missed. And that smile! I am grateful for the wisdom he shared with me and for him pinning on my MSgt stripes. Until we meet again friend.

Reginald Jackson

May 1, 2018

Mr. Spence was a mentor and friend to a lot of people including myself. No matter what he was going through he always had a smile on his face and kind words to say. He didn't mind volunteering his time and wisdom to anyone who would accept it. He will truly be missed. #RIP

May 1, 2018

Rest in peace my old friend...

Kendra Bossard

May 1, 2018

Mr. Spence,

It was a pleasure working with you. You made me smile every day I walked into flight service center and saw that mug in your hand. You touch so many life. My heart is heavy.

Abner Borrero

May 1, 2018

Mr Spence,
Thank you for giving my wife and I outstanding mentorship through our careers. You will surely be missed. We love you and may god bring your family comfort and peace.

Ed Mena.. or Mr Spence name for me "Mr. Mena"

May 1, 2018

Mr. Spence the Mastermind of Supply, The Boss of it all. I will never forget your words of wisdom "Being knowledgeable of your job an go further you cant be stopped". Know everything it is about your job an all supply jobs so you can be versatile to whatever job is thrown your way. You always had our backs an was the kick in the butt when we step out of line. You will always be loved, remembered and forever be missed.

Brandy Allred

May 1, 2018

Mr Spence taught me both life lessons and work lessons. He was there if you needed advice, training, a good laugh and even a hug! Mr. Spence you will be missed! R.I.P.

Crystal Lewis

May 1, 2018

Mr. Spence was instrumental to a lot of our development. He will be missed. Sending prayers for his family during this difficult time.

Shawn Leggitt

May 1, 2018

Mr. Spence i learned so much from you. I wish the best for your family. Others will stand watch for you now sir. R.I.P sir.

TSgt (Ret) Michael Gardiner

May 1, 2018

It was truly an honor to know Mr. Spence. Thank you for all your mentor ship, and knowledge RIP.

Raniesa Gray-Johnson

May 1, 2018

Mr. Spence was such a great man. And he never forgot a face. I saw him a few months ago and he recognized me immediately. That made me feel special as I hadn't seen him in a few years. He always had great advice and his love for all service members was incomparable. He will be truly missed.

Matt Culver

May 1, 2018

Sorry for your loss. Mr. Spence was a great guy and and a great mentor he will be missed. Praying for the family.

Sarah Schultz

May 1, 2018

So sorry. Mr Spence was a unique, wonderful man. I enjoyed working and talking with him.

Capt Katrina Robinson

May 1, 2018

Many blessings

Showing 1 - 33 of 33 results

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Memorial Events
for Larry Spence

May

6

Visitation

2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Berceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions - Hampton

2609 Cunningham Drive, Hampton, VA 23666

May

7

Funeral Mass

11:00 a.m.

St. Joseph Catholic Church

Hampton, VA

May

7

Interment

3:00 p.m.

Albert G. Horton Jr Memorial Veterans Cemetery

Suffolk, VA

Funeral services provided by:

Berceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions - Hampton

2609 Cunningham Drive, Hampton, VA 23666

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