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Dr. James C. Spencer Jr.
1955 - 2014
Dr. James C. Spencer Jr.
1955 - 2014
Obituary
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James Spencer Obituary
Dr. James C. Spencer Jr. beloved father of four, peacefully passed away at his residence in Fairfield, CT on Friday May 2, 2014. Dr. Spencer was born on February 15, 1955 in Wethersfield CT to Lt. Col. James C. Spencer Sr. and Margaret M. Johnson. He was a graduate of Wethersfield High School and thereafter Assumption College where received his Bachelors of Science in Biology. Dr. Spencer would go on to graduate from Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara and New York Medical College and complete a residency in Internal medicine at St. Vincent's Medical Center in Bridgeport, CT. James started his private practice in 1986 where he cared for his patients for over 20 years. He finished his career as a medical consultant at American Transit Insurance Company in New York City. His passions in life included playing golf with his friends and family and spending time with his dogs. One of his most memorable moments was shooting a 67 at New Seabury Country Club in Cape Cod, MA. James is survived by his loving children James, wife Amber and granddaughter Celeste Marie Spencer, Kipp Spencer, Tyler Spencer, and Kelly Spencer. He also leaves his brother David Spencer, his sisters Mary Lou Hoffman and husband Andrew, Betsy Neidel and Husband William, and Susan Meltzer and husband Steven. He leaves also several nieces and nephews. His care, sacrifice, and love will be missed. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, May 8 at Rose Hill Funeral Home on 580 Elm St. in Rocky Hill, from 4 to 7 PM. There will be a mass of Christian Burial the following morning on Friday, May 9 at 10 AM at The Church of Incarnation on 544 Prospect St. in Wethersfield. In lieu of flowers if you would like, please make a donation to the Purple Heart Foundation.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Ann Romanello
May 1, 2023
I still miss his kindness, compassion and humor. Those of us who knew him loved him, and those of us who loved him will always him.
April 10, 2015
You will be greatly missed Dr.Spencer. While being the Doctor for my husband & I. his sense of humor and caring manner has always been memorable to us even to this day. Our prayers & sympathy to the family. We are so sorry for your loss. Sincerely, Brian & Yvette Parker
August 21, 2014
You deserved far more time to be with those you loved and loved you. You will be in my heart always. Denise Torve
David Spencer
June 5, 2014
Jim - Your were a great brother to your three sisters and me. As a doctor you were a brilliant shining star. You were caring, compassionate, and friendly to your patients. Your patients loved you and I can see why. They had your attention and time no matter how long you had to spend with them. You always made them feel special. Your shoes will never be filled. They do not make doctors like you anymore. You lit every room that you walked into. I am very thankful you were my brother and grateful that we were able to play a lot of golf together. As the Irish would may the wind always be at your back.
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Jodi Tripodi
June 4, 2014
My prayers and sympathy goes to all your family Dr. Spencer. He was an amazing Dr who was personable, never rushed you out the door and made you feel like family. He was wonderful to my Gram and even came to her wake to pay his respects to her and all of us. In today's age he was a shining star and I could never thank him enough for all he did for me when I had acute pneumonia. When he left his practice and it was time to find a Dr. closer to our new home they certainly were "Big Shoes" to fill. He will be missed.
David Spencer
June 2, 2014
Eulogy: My sisters and I loved being around Jim and are very grateful that he was our brother.
From the beginning Jim had a sense of adventure. At two Jim escaped the watchful eye of our mother and tried crossing the Silas Deane Highway. Thankfully an alert mechanic retrieved Jim and returned him safely.
Jim was humble and somewhat quiet. He carried himself with integrity and had a solid moral compass. Some of that morality was shaped here in this church where he served as an altar boy. Jim enjoyed his days as an altar boy. He and Peter Rosetta would compete to see who could ring the bell the loudest.
At the early age of seven Jim announced with a toy stethoscope around his neck that he was going to be a doctor. He pursued his dream studying pre-med at Assumption College. In addition to his studies Jim played on the golf team all four years. Shortly thereafter Jim attended medical school in Guadalajara Mexico where he earned his Doctor of Medicine degree. I remember Jim calling my father to let him know he had passed all his exams and became an MD. My father and mother couldn't have been more proud.
Jim treated us all the same, he kept us all waiting.
Jim practiced medicine for twenty years in Stamford, CT and had a huge following of patients. His patients loved him and it was not uncommon during the holiday season for his patients to drop off money, gift cards, and food to his office. His patients truly loved him, and he loved them as well. Jim was an excellent physician. He saw most patients in his office, but if they were unable to make it in, Jim would see them in their homes. He was a pioneer.
Jim had the ability to recognize great talent and he found that in Rae who he hired to manage his office. Jim trusted Rae implicitly and counted on her for everything. Rae wasn't just Jim's office manager. She was a great friend who helped him with everything without asking for anything in return. One day Rae was having surgery and she coded in the operating room and the surgeon and anesthesiologist could not revive her. They called Jim and told him they lost his girl. Jim replied, "B.S. you did." He went into the OR and revived her three times. Rae is living proof of the type of doctor Jim was. Rae told me she was only one example of all the good Jim has done in this world. Jim, in his humble manner, never mentioned any of this.
Jim was not your 7 minute doctor. If it took a 1/2 hour or an hour, Jim would spend the time with you.
Jim always had a smile and a kind word to say about people he knew. I remember being at a golf outing and his friend Ed McGettigan was the "MC" of the award ceremony. Jim turned to me and said, "Ed always does a great job at these events."
Jim loved being a doctor and he loved golf. However, his number one love was his children Jimmy, Kipp, Tyler and Kelly. Let me tell you that your father had nothing but unconditional love for all of you. He may not have been present all the time, but he loved you dearly and always thought of you and was very proud that you all are well educated and extremely polite and friendly. On the golf course Jim told me on numerous occassions that I have great children.
We lost Jim at the young age of 59 but we will always remember him as being our family doctor, bigger than life, having a heart of gold, and just being a great person who as Rae put it, "did so much good for this world." We all love you Jim and we will always remember you as being the loving brother, father, and son you were.
May 23, 2014
you will be missed Lois Jane
May 23, 2014
My sympathy goes out to you, your family and your friends. Rest in peace my dear friend.
Linda Bryan
May 20, 2014
So sorry that you are gone. No one will ever replace you as a kind caring Doctor. My mom Bernice Slesh and Step Father Joseph Slesh Sr. loved you. When you left your practice in Stamford you took a piece of all of ours hearts,especially with your senior patients.
Rest in Peace Dr. Spencer, now Bernice and Joe will get to see you.
Sincerely,
Linda Bryan. Stamford Ct.
Larry Moy
May 20, 2014
I worked with Jim at St. Joe's when I was working in the ER and I find him to be a truly caring and fine physician. He spends quality time with his patients and will be missed by them as well as his colleagues.
Robert T Bonafide
May 18, 2014
I just heard. How sad. I was a patient for many years in Stamford. Dr. Spencer always had a busy office. What struck me was that when he attended to you , there was no rush, and he listened as though I were his only patient.
He made a mark. Will not be forgotten.
May 18, 2014
Thank you, Jim. We will miss you terribly. Thank you for the great times, countless memories, medical advice, leading our runaway dog back home in zero degree weather, helping our neighbor to the car so she could see the Christmas lights, and for always caring so much about others. Most of all, thank you for your friendship. We have no doubt that your angelic duties will include continuing to look out for your family, friends, and patients. Our prayers are with your family and others whose hearts hurt. You've blessed so many lives and made the world a better place. Warm thoughts forever... Love, Catheroo and the Big Guy
Sarah & joe Santasiero
May 17, 2014
Dr spencer you were a great dr to me and my family we our all going to miss you . And a great golfer. Love Sarah &. Joe santasiero
Pamela Robinson
May 17, 2014
Jimmy, you made the world a better and healthier place. Your legacy as an exemplary Physician will live on.
Pam Robinson
May 17, 2014
I will never forget the first time I met David's dear brother Jimmy. We took a trip to CT from MI. We were to meet and play golf. When we got there we tried to pay our greens fees only to learn that Jimmy had already paid them. Jim was running a little late and he said to go ahead and he would "catch up". So, it's getting dark and we are going up to the last hole and we hear Jimmy yelling from afar, "Hey David, hey David". He caught up with us and we played the last hole...in the dark. I couldn't see his face but we finished that hole. David would call him on a weekend night and he would be down at Chelsea Pier shooting balls at 11pm. He truly loved the game of golf. Whenever we had some malady David would call Jimmy and I was always so amazed that he knew something about everything when it came to medicine. It didn't matter what David would challenge him with medically. He would call not only for himself but for me and my family and sometimes even a friend. He never said "why are you calling me?" He just always kindly answered; always ready to help someone no matter who they were. He truly had a passion for medicine. He was ALWAYS up on the latest news and ALWAYS shared the treatment options freely. He always knew when to worry about something or when to let it run its course and he always seemed to be right. As a nurse, I was always in awe of his knowledge and expertise. I learned that this man was truly an exemplary Physician who studied his craft continuously. I have no doubt that God put Jimmy on this earth to be a Physician. God knows he was an extremely talented one. After the golf game we went out for a long dinner and visit. Even though I only met him for one night I quickly learned what a wonderful, funny, caring, generous, intelligent, intuitive individual he was. He really loved and was very proud of his children. He spoke of them in the highest esteem. He also really loved his brother and sisters and their children. He always had time to talk to David's son Jordan. He would say to David, "put him on the phone". I loved that about him. I will miss him. Yes, I only really knew him vicariously through his many conversations with my dear boyfriend David. I will miss their special brotherly talks, the sports events ramblings, the golf stories, the endless medical consulting. What I will continue to grieve is the beautiful, loving relationship of two brothers, who, although separated by many miles, remained close and true to each other. I am thinking of all the Spencer family who lost this beautiful and unique soul. I send you my love and I hurt for your loss. I know how you all loved Jimmy and held him in the highest regard, not only as a wonderful Physician but as a cherished, loving Father, Brother, Uncle and friend. Cherish the memories and hold him close in your heart. With all my love always. Pam
May 16, 2014
I am very sorry to hear of your passing.I felt you were a great doctor and very compassionate person.
You were a very caring doctor and person and I feel that the world has truly lost a giving, compassionate, bright and kind individual.
Rest in peace.
Rita Burriesci Parenti
Katherine Lampros
May 14, 2014
Jim was a good doctor, a kind man, and a good friend. Avid golfer that he was, I remember seeing him as my dad's funeral procession exited the church on Newfield Avenue. He was standing on the green opposite to pay his respects to his patient and his friend, the man who had served with his dad in the military. Seven days later, in the absence of her primary physican, we called on Jim for help for mom when we learned of the sudden death of my brother. Jim sat with her for as long as it took to calm her through the shock, I know he had someplace else to be. You would never have known that, as the most important place for him to be at that moment was with her and her family. He was a good and kind man and will not be forgotten. Find peace in those good memories.
Lewis (Chuck) Pace
May 14, 2014
Dr. Spencer was a very knowledgeable doctor and a wonderful and caring person. Without Dr. Spencer's care my mother's nearly six years being bed bound would not have survived or have seen my Mother's first great child. Our family will always remember Dr. Spencer.
Our deepest sympathy to Dr. Spencer's family
May 11, 2014
Dr. Spencer - You were a great Doctor to our entire family for many years. You're now in Michael's company whom you always looked after. Rest in peace.
Violette, Gagnon & Claps Families
May 10, 2014
Dr SPencer was such a warm and concerned man! He was a wonderful Doctor! May he rest in peace! Diane Mollo
May 10, 2014
DOC- SO SORRY THAT THE WORLD HAS LOST SUCH A GOOD DOCTOR AND FINE PERSON. OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY.
R.I.P.
PPATRICIA & GEORGE GREER
May 10, 2014
Dr. Spencer was a great man, we are very sorry to hear of his passing my your memories bring you comfort and keep him with you always
Tim and Paula Weeks
Sam Cusano
May 10, 2014
So very sorry to have a childhood friend/classmate leave so young. My best to his Family.
Jennie Kemp
May 9, 2014
Dr spencer you were a wonderful dr to me and my family and I will never forget you. Love Jennie
Tony and Marie Genovese
May 9, 2014
Dr. Spencer was a loving and caring doctor to both my husband and myself,,,, but most of all,,,,, the love and caring that he gave to my Mom..... God Bless You, Jim..... Our prayers are with you and your family...
Beth Wolff RN
May 9, 2014
I worked with Jim at St. Joe's when he was a fifth pathway. Funny times we had on Ped's, while taking care of the babies.
Jim had the most unique way of carrying his stethoscope...when I read this obit, I immediately thought of that.
so sorry to hear of this sad news. Annie did say it best-hope you are having a blast!
Cathy Finch
May 9, 2014
David,
So very sorry to hear about Jim's passing. It's never easy my dear friend. My prayers are with you and your family.
Cathy Finch
"What we have once enjoyed, we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes part of us." - Helen Keller
May 9, 2014
To the Family of Dr. Spencer:
My sister, Katherine, and I are sadden to hear of Jim's passing. He was a wonderful Dr. and friend to our dad.
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. You are in our prayers.
Sincerely,
Lillian and Katherine Lampros
Tracy Herrmann Reilly
May 9, 2014
We all loved Dr. Spencer when he was our doctor in Stamford in the 90's. So sad to read this. Sending thoughts of peace and comfort to his family.
Tracy Herrmann Reilly
Dr. Richard Sass
May 8, 2014
To the Spencer Family....with sympathy and respect.
Cathy Evans
May 8, 2014
RIP Doc Spencer. No other Md could take your place
Mary Ann Bello
May 8, 2014
David, I am so sorry about Jim's passing. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
May 8, 2014
Ann Romaneillo said it best, CEIL
May 8, 2014
Spence, That is what I called him .I will never forget you and will always will remember what you did for my family and espically for me. You were and the best ever beyond the call of duty and I thank you for that and you will always be in my heart. We all loved you.CEIL
joe gerardi
May 8, 2014
To the Spencer family, Sorry to hear of Dr Spencers passing. Let happy memories help you through this difficult time.
RIP Doc.
Dominick & Micheal Rosa
May 8, 2014
Our Hearts are saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Spencer,he was my fathers and my doctor and freind when he had his practice in Stamford, CT.
Our prayers and sincere wishes to his family. He will always be in our prayers. May GOD bless you Dr.Spencer!
May 8, 2014
DR SPENCER WAS A WONDERFUL DOCTOR TO MY DAD WHEN HE WAS DYING FROM CANCER....HE WAS A GOOD MAN...RO BEGEL
May 8, 2014
I was saddened to learn of Jim's passing today. He was an excellent doctor and a true friend. He will be missed and never forgotten. Our sympathies to the Spencer family, all our love, Christina and Bob Moore.
The Koda Family
May 8, 2014
Our sincerest sympathy to the Spencer family. We are grateful for the wonderful care you gave our family over the years.
May 8, 2014
We were so saddened and shocked to learn of Jim's passing. I worked with Jim through out his training at St. Joe's and medical career in Stamford. He exemplified the truth in the medical aphorism: The secret of caring for patients IS really caring for patients....
Dr Jim McSweeney
May 8, 2014
to dr spencer & family, spence was a great dr & loyal friend & neighbor. he was our family dr for 20 years. he will be deeply missed. also a scratch golfer. our deepest & sincere sympathy, bud & pauline powell.naples,fl
Marilyn Murphy
May 8, 2014
To the Spencer family - our deepest sympathy. Fond memories of years past will help during this time.
Fondly,
Marilyn Murphy, Brian, Jeff, Sierra and Ryder Bonin
THE CALOROSSI FAMILY
May 8, 2014
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Robert Callis
May 8, 2014
Dave, my deepest sympathies to your and your entire family..May God bless you all.
Sherry & Freddy Celis
May 8, 2014
We are so sorry to hear of Dr Spencer's passing. He was a great Dr and our family Loved him very much. He always took such great care of us,as well as my parents Mr and Mrs Robert Foster He will be deeply missed.. The Celis Family
Frank Castros
May 8, 2014
I'm saddened by Jim's passing and extend my sincere condolences to his family and friends.
He was a great guy.
May 8, 2014
Meg, Sue, Mary Lou and Andrew,
Very sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers during this difficult time.
George and Peggy Simms
Valerie Sigalos
May 8, 2014
I am very sorry for your loss. Spence was a good caring doctor with a great sense of humor! May your memories bring you comfort in the days ahead.
Rich Cohen
May 8, 2014
Very sad news. I was a patient of Dr Spencers for many years. he was a great Dr and person. many laughs with him.
May 8, 2014
Dave, I extend my deepest sympathy to you in the loss of your brother. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Love, Nancy Chapman
May 7, 2014
To our neighbor, our Doctor and our friend.The good times will never be forgotten your were part of our family. Donna, David, Jimmy and me of course send our deepest sympathy to your children and family. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Mary Judge -Stamford,CT
Jane
May 7, 2014
To all the Spencers, including David, Susan, Mary Lou, Betsy and families....I am so sorry to hear about Spence. Please know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jane (Noonan) Rothrock
Rose Hill Funeral Homes Inc.
May 8, 2014
With deepest sympathy during this time of difficulty.
Sue deFreese
May 7, 2014
Dr Spencer I was so sorry to hear of your passing. You were a wonderful and caring Dr. I will keep your family in my prayers. You will be missed.
Laurie Fuda
May 6, 2014
I worked with Jim for many years and he was a wonderful man and doctor. Could always bring a smile to your face. Jim, Thank you for caring so deeply for my family-they are all devastated that you are gone. I hope you are hitting the greens in two! RIP. My sympathies to your family. You will be missed!
April Palma
May 6, 2014
Dr spencer you were a great dr and you will be miss dearly. Sending my love & prayers to your family in this diffulty time
April Palma
May 6, 2014
Dr spencer you were the best dr ever and you will be greatly miss. My heart goes out to your family. Love April palma
Joann Avalone
May 6, 2014
Dr spencer you were such a wonderful dr and boss . You were my dr and family for 15 yrs . And my boss for 5 yr until you left my heart is broken you save my husband life and I will always be grateful to you. There will never be a caring dr like you. My love & prAyers go to your beautiful children and family. You will be miss dearly. Love joann & john avalone
Ann Marie Romanello
May 6, 2014
My dear, sweet, funny old friend. You were a kind, supportive colleague and such a caring physician to my parents and brother. I love you Jim, and hope that you are having more fun in heaven then you ever did here on earth. And that is a lot of fun. Peace and comfort to your family - You will always be missed and never be forgotten.
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