Paul Jackson "Shag" Spencer

Paul "Shag" Jackson Spencer, 89, of Rolla, Missouri, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2025.
Paul was born on March 15, 1936, to the late Emmett Spencer and Lucy (Feeler) Spencer in Maries County, Missouri. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Don Spencer.
Born with a generous heart and a quiet, steady presence, Shag lived a life defined by simple joys, steadfast devotion, and a love for the people and traditions that made his world full.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Shag rarely missed a good game-whether it was baseball in the summer, football in the fall, or the friendly competition of his church softball league and bowling league. He loved the camaraderie, the laughter, and the rhythm of community that came with every team he played on.
For 33 years, he worked at Holsum Bakery, where he not only perfected his craft but also stood up for his coworkers as the union steward for the Bakery and Confectionery Union. When the bakery closed, Shag took his work ethic and sense of independence and built something new-his own business, Paul Spencer Trucking. He poured himself into that venture with the same dedication he brought to everything in his life.
Shag had a unique gift for people: he never met a stranger he couldn't start up a conversation with. Whether in a grocery line, at the ballpark, or on the road, he could turn a chance encounter into a warm exchange. His friendliness came naturally-he simply liked people, and people liked him right back.
Faith was a cornerstone of Paul's life. He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in St. James, Missouri, and he served faithfully as an elder at Redeemer Lutheran Church, where he supported his congregation with the same quiet dedication he brought to all things.
To his family-and almost everyone who knew him-Shag was affectionately known as "the candy man." He always had sweets tucked in his pockets, ready to hand out to grandkids, friends, or anyone who looked like they could use a smile. It was a small gesture, but it was signature Shag: a little bit of sweetness offered freely and with love.
Shag leaves behind his devoted wife, Adra; his children, David (Stephanie) and Tracy (Rodney); his brother Archie (Sandra); his sisters Mary Sue (Tony) and Linda; his grandchildren, Megan (Brandon), Emily (Kevin), Sarah, Wyatt (Sydney), Logan (Sarah), and Alyssa; and his great-grandchildren, Asher, William, Ava, Ellie, Elizabeth, Joey, and Teddy-each one a light in his life. His legacy lives on in their laughter, their stories, and the traditions he helped shape.
Shag's life was a gentle reminder that goodness doesn't have to be loud to be lasting. He will be remembered for his warmth, his humor, his unwavering kindness, and the joy he found in the everyday.
Services will be held on Saturday, December 6 at St. John Lutheran Church (229 W James Blvd, St. James, MO 65559). The visitation will begin at 10:00am, followed by the funeral service at 11:00am. Interment will take place at Ozark Hills Memorial Gardens Cemetery (12110 S Bishop Ave, Rolla, MO 65401) immediately proceeding the service.
Memorial contributions in Shag's memory are suggested to St. John Lutheran Church.