EDWIN SPENCER Jr.

EDWIN SPENCER, JR. Ed Spencer, a remarkable family man and loyal friend known for his big heart, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2025, at the age of 78. A memorial service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on September 17 at First United Methodist Church Richardson, located at 503 North Central Expressway in Richardson. "Eddie" was born in Denison, TX, on September 16, 1946, to Edwin Sr. ("Buster") and Minnie Jo ("Toots") Spencer. He has one sister, Suzanne. The family moved to Dallas in 1951, where Ed would spend most of his life. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School and attended the University of North Texas, where he majored in Journalism. Ed's professional career began at the Denton Record-Chronicle, followed by a move to the Dallas Times Herald. A pivotal moment occurred when his friend, Bob Shaw, recruited him to join the Dallas Police Department's Public Information Office in 1971. Over the next 27 years, Ed built a distinguished career, serving under nine police chiefs. He was a key communicator between the Dallas Police Department and the local media; his background in journalism helped him understand both sides of the conversation. Colleagues recall that Ed was always helpful to new reporters, a skilled communicator, and a steady presence in high-pressure situations. Reporters and cops alike valued his professionalism and fairness, leaving a lasting legacy in the field. While at DPD, Ed met Mary Elliott. After several years of friendship, six weeks of dating, and a four-month engagement, they were married in 1974. The couple made their home in Dallas and continued to work together at the DPD. While they lived in Dallas, their first home purchase was their lake house at Lake Texoma. They welcomed their son, Thomas, in 1979 and their daughter, Amy, in 1982. Ed retired from the DPD in 1998 and continued serving the public as the Dallas County Sheriff's Office's public information officer until 2002. Beyond his law enforcement work, Ed was an accomplished writer. He wrote for several magazines during his lifetime, including a recurring column in Fishing Tackle Retailer that profiled successful tackle shops. In the early 2000s, he managed the crime-fighting reward program for Dean Foods, which included Schepps Dairy and Oak Farms. Ed generously volunteered his time and support to civic efforts. He served multiple terms on the Dallas County Grand Jury, was an active member of the Baby Moses Project board, and was a staunch backer of the Richardson Humane Society. A lifelong outdoorsman, Ed found immense joy and excitement in nature - hunting, fishing, or simply spending time outside, he was at home under an open sky. His love for exploring Texas was only surpassed by his deep connection with the family property in Pottsboro, TX, affectionately known as "The Lake." Ed spent countless days there from 1961 through June of 2025, mowing the lawn, fishing, boating, and hosting friends and family. In 2021, he opened an Airbnb on the property, proudly earning a spot in the top 1% of hosts for ratings and reliability. Guests consistently praised his hospitality. Ed is preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Minnie Jo Spencer. Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Mary; his son Thomas, daughter-in-law Lily, and their son Edwin III (Sammy); his daughter Amy Hammer, son-in-law Michael, and their children James and Mia; and his sister, Suzanne Liles. Ed also leaves behind his loyal lake dog, Buster. To honor Ed's life, donations may be made to the Richardson Humane Society, P.O. Box 852515, Richardson, TX 75085-2515 (https://www.richardsonhumanesociety.org).