Robert F. Spencer Jr.

God saw that Robert was growing tired and that a cure was not to be. So He wrapped His arms around him and whispered, Come to Me. In the early hours of Monday morning, January 12, 2026, Robert answered the call and transitioned peacefully into the loving arms of our Heavenly Father, surrounded by his loved ones.

Robert F. Spencer Jr. was born on February 12, 1942, to the late Robert and Roberta Spencer. He was the youngest of three sons and was preceded in death by his beloved brothers, Bennie Spencer Sr. and William Spencer, and his cherished daughter, Shelia Gardner.

Robert attended Norfolk Public Schools and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School. He went on to attend Norfolk State College, where he earned his Bachelors Degree, and later obtained his Masters Degree from Old Dominion University.

Robert devoted 36 years of his life to education as a respected and beloved teacher at Surry High School, where he taught History and U.S. Government before retiring. His excellence in education earned him recognition as Teacher of the Year on two occasions.

In addition to teaching, Robert was a dedicated and accomplished basketball coach. He coached both boys and girls basketball teams, leading them to winning seasons. His leadership and commitment were recognized with Coach of the Year honors for basketball, including District and Regional Coach of the Year five times.

Roberts influence extended far beyond the classroom and the court. He left a lasting impact on generations of students and athletes, evident in the overwhelming outpouring of love and support shown throughout his illness and especially during the final months of his life.

Robert leaves to cherish his loving memory his devoted wife, Catherine Spencer; his son, Christopher (Shanta); grandchildren Kevin of Maricopa, Arizona, Kentrel Gardner of Norfolk, and Anthony Nault of Newport News; granddaughters Charisma Ellis of Newport News and Shantia Gardner of Norfolk, Virginia; four great-grandsons and three great-granddaughters.

He also leaves a cherished niece, Dr. Latisha Webb (William), whom Robert and Catherine lovingly raised; a special niece, Gwendolyn Boddie (Calvin); and a host of nieces and nephews. As well as several other relatives and close friends.

Robert is also survived by his sisters-in-law: Audrey Gardner of Norfolk, Betty Gardner of Virginia Beach, Special Sister-in-law Esther Ricks of Dallas, Texas, and Gwen Spencer of Chesapeake, Virginia.

Robert F. Spencer Jr. will be remembered for his unwavering faith, dedication to education, excellence in coaching, and deep love for his family and community. His legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.
Viewing: Thursday, January 22, 2026 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM Metropolitan Funeral Service 7246 Granby Street Norfolk, VA Celebration of Life: COME IN PERSON OR WATCH ONLINE Friday, January 23, 2026 11:00 AM Metropolitan Funeral Service 7246 Granby Street Norfolk, VA Laid to Rest: Forest Lawn Cemetery 8100 Granby Street Norfolk, VA