Luther Paul Spence

Luther Paul Spence, 71, of Eure, NC, passed away peacefully at home, his favorite place, on July 29, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him.

Luther was born in Virginia Beach, Virginia on February 17, 1954, to the late Howard Alden “Pete” Spence and Olivia Mae Byrd, moving to Gates County with family in 1972 where he graduated from Gates County High School. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Earl Lee Spence, and by his loving canine friend, Ozzie.

Luther was a force of personality, whether commanding a room with just a look, or entertaining everyone with his dry sense of humor. A man of few words but lasting presence, Luther lived life on his own terms: strong, spirited, and unapologetically himself. A private man not known for wanting to be in the spotlight, yet always finding himself in the middle of it.

Back in the day, when Luther and his brothers were known as the “Those Spence Boys,” they would grace the ball field, and people paid attention. Their grit, talent, good looks, and easy swagger made them local legends — and those memories still echo in dugouts and on sidelines where stories are passed down.

Surviving are his four children, Shawn Melissa, Benjamin Tod, Jessica Robyn, and Cody Wyatt; his two brothers, Howard Spence and his wife Donna, and David Spence and his wife Cathy; life-long friend, Paul Toti; along with eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He will be remembered — not for speeches or sentiment — but for the way he carried himself, the stories he left behind, and the space he held in the hearts of those who truly knew him. When life got noisy or complicated, he’d often say, “Does a man have to die to get some peace?”

Peace be with you, Luther.

The family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care provided by Gentiva Hospice during Luther’s final days.

A gathering for family and friends will be held at Tarheel Bar-B-Q, 9 US-13 S, Eure, NC, on Sunday, August 24th at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Eason’s Crossroads Ball Park, PO Box 283, Gatesville, NC 27938.

Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 304 Main Street, Gatesville, NC is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com