Doris Spence

Ruth "Doris" Spence, 97, lovingly known to many as "Nannie", peacefully and eagerly ran into the arms of Jesus on Thursday, January 1st 2026, at 1020 in the morning in the superb care of Major Health Partners in Shelbyville, Indiana, where she was surrounded by family.
She was born April 6, 1928 in Hickory, Virginia, daughter to proud farmers Joseph & Ruth Spence. She was a loving sister to 2 brothers and 8 sisters; the last surviving sibling. She married the love of her life, Clarence Paul Spence, on August 27, 1947, who preceded her in death (1992).
Her legacy can be summed up in her faith and love of Jesus, and the relationships and love she had for others.
She was mother to three amazing daughters, Charlotte Ann Spence (deceased), Brenda Joyce Spence Stutt, and Darlene Francis Spence Shelton. She had two or maybe just one favorite son-in-law (depending on who you asked), Michael Stutt and Tomas Shelton.
She was "Aunt Doris" to many nieces and nephews; all of whom have many fond memories of backyard cook-outs, homemade ice cream, and family get togethers. Spending time with her family remained her priority. She devoted her life to her family and was always looking for opportunities to serve and love as Jesus did.
Brenda & Michael blessed her with two grandchildren, they were the light of her life. Christa Michelle Lewis and David Wayne Stutt. And Doris became "Nannie" overnight. Her grandchildren spent many summers at her home; rolling in ditches, playing in the garden, picking peaches, playing outside, and evenings were filled with card games together around the table or catching lightening bugs in the backyard.
She remained an active participant in her children and grandchildren's lives throughout; present at every milestone, every high, every low. Always lovingly guiding, directing, and praying vehemently for all those she loved. She was an incredible chef, baker, flower gardener and entertainer.
She was grandmother-in-law to Kevin (Christa) and Rachel (David). Each, loved her dearly.
And just when she didn't think life could get better; she was blessed with her first great-grandchild – and life became sweeter by the day. She was Nannie still – but now to 7 great-grandchildren. All of whom she loved dearly and prayed for daily. She delighted in each of them and spent many moments with them, hearing updates about them, or looking at pictures of them.
Christa & Kevin Lewis – Madelyn Ruth (16), Rosalie Clare (10), Tobias Jay (7), Lucille Joy (3).
David & Rachel Stutt – Evan Matthew (13), Colin Patrick (11), Paige Anne (9).
Until 2021, Doris resided at 913 Deep Creek Blvd, Chesapeake, Virginia, in the home that her husband, Clarence, built.
After recognizing that living alone was becoming difficult, she tried out "snow birding" in Florida with Brenda & Mike. Her time in Florida was filled with fabulous seafood restaurants, dinner theaters, and card games.
She spent the last 2+years with Christa, Kevin and family in Yorktown, Indiana. She was instant friends with Kevin's parents, Ron & Sandy, and spent many afternoons doing puzzles with them. Her "golden years" were filled to overflowing. She loved her weekly hair salon visits, and continued to surprise everyone with her quick wit and sarcastic, hilarious responses to life. She filled her time with great-grandchildren, word searches, puzzles, front porch sitting, hummingbird watching, great food eating, and "Sound of Music" watching. She had many lovely visits from her daughters, Brenda & Darlene, and niece, Dianne.
She greeted everyone with a warm smile and sweet hug. Her final years were spent living out love, forgiveness, contentment and constant faith and trust in Jesus; lessons that were passed to all those she loved. Heaven gained a great one; and was certainly welcomed with these words, "Well done my good and faithful servant."
Services for Doris will be 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Union Chapel with Pastor Amanda Willis officiating. The service will be live streamed for those unable to attend. Doris will be laid to rest in Meadowbrook Memorial Gardens, Suffolk, Virginia at a later date.
Family and friends may call from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at the church
Memorial contributions may be directed to Union Chapel Ministries, 4622 N. Broadway Ave., Muncie, Indiana 47303.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.meeksmortuary.com.