Kathleen Mabel Spencer

Kathleen M. Spencer, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri. A memorial service celebrating the life of Kathy was held at the First Church of Peculiar on Saturday, January 10, 2026. Memorial donations are suggested to American Diabetes.

Born on April 14, 1948, in Noel, MO, to Keith and Mary (Wheeler) Tuttle, Kathy was the epitome of kindness and compassion, known for her caring and nurturing spirit. Kathy grew up in Drexel and Grandview, MO, where she attended Grandview High School. She married the love of her life, Jim Spencer, on February 6, 1965, at Martin City Methodist Church. Their bond was a beautiful testament to love, characterized by laughter, support, and unwavering partnership.

Jim and Kathy started building their family in Grandview, MO, then moved to Belton, MO; and 22 years ago, they built their forever home and moved to Peculiar, where she continued her life's passion for caring for children. As a dedicated child care teacher, she opened her heart to countless little ones, always taking the time to share her warmth and joy. She was affectionately known as a babysitter to everyone, a title that perfectly encapsulated her nurturing nature.

Kathy was a member of Pleasant Prairie Baptist Church, where she found community and connection. She cherished her family deeply, and her legacy will live on in their hearts. Despite her struggles with health challenges, Kathy faced each day with grace and strength. Her resilience served as an inspiration to those around her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Keith; and her sister, Jane. She is survived by her husband, Jim Spencer, of the home; her sons: Tim (Angie) Spencer of Harrisonville, MO; Brian (Christie) Spencer of Raymore, MO; and Steve (Cynthia) Spencer of Harrisonville, MO; her daughter, Kristen (Bobby) Riley, of Peculiar, MO; her sisters: Janet Ray of Pleasant Hill, MO; Kay English of Peculiar MO; Leann Abney of Nolcrest, Florida; and Marion Williams of Kansas City, MO; her 17 grandchildren; and her 11 great-grandchildren. Each family member holds fond memories of her laughter and love.