Jerry Cameron Spence

Jerry C. Spence passed away on July 16, 2023, at his home of more than fifty years, in Rock Hall, MD, surrounded by his family. He was 79.

Born in Woodstock, VA, on June 30, 1944, he was the son of the late Samuel Ray Spence and Peggy Jo Hite Spence Aleshire. Jerry was raised by his mother and his stepfather, Isaac "Pete" Aleshire. He graduated from Central High School in 1962, and after serving six years in the United States Army and the Army National Guard, he was Honorably Discharged. While stationed at the Nike Base, in Tolchester, MD, Jerry met and fell in love with Jean Powhida. They were married on May 7, 1965, and decided to make Rock Hall their home. For several years, Jerry enjoyed working as a truck driver for Linder's Pile Drivers and Hubbard's Seafood. Driving a truck was something he truly loved and talked about all through his life. Jerry provided a wonderful life for his family, while employed as a Chemical Operator for Tenneco Chemical Company, for almost 25 years. Later in life, Jerry continued his love of driving, while working for the town of Rock Hall, driving the Trolley. He made a lot of friends on the Trolley, and he made many dogs happy, handing out treats. Jerry was very involved in the community and was an active member of the American Legion, Sgt. Preston Ashley, Post #228 in Rock Hall, for 54 years. He was also a member of the Rock Hall Lions Club, the Chestertown Elks Lodge #2474, and was a Life Member of the Rock Hall Volunteer Fire Department, serving his town by fighting fires and as a part of the ambulance crew. He truly loved his family, his friends, and his community.

In addition to his wife, Jean, Jerry is survived by daughter, Debbie Spence ; four grandchildren, Megan Esper (Taylor), Jamie Short (Morgan), Cameron Spence and Jordan Short; three great-grandchildren, Caleb, Levi and Saylor Esper; two sisters, Candy Hausenfluck (Kenny) of VA and Peggy Sue Stickley (Larry) of VA; a cousin, Jackie Lambert; and his special daughters, Stephanie Balderrama and Mary Lou Christian, as well as their families. Jerry is also survived by Jean's incredibly supportive family, and nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Jerry was predeceased by his daughter, Holly Spence Short, in 2019, his sister, Loretta Davis and his brother, Donald Spence.

Services will be held on Sun., July 23, 2023, at 2:00 pm at Fellows, Helfenbein & Newnam Funeral Home, 130 Speer Road, Chestertown, MD, where relatives and friends may from 12-2pm.

Contributions may be made to the Rock Hall Vol. Fire Co., P.O. Box 577 Rock Hall, MD 21661.

www.fhnfuneralhome.com.