Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Douglas Spencer Obituary
Easthampton, MA - Douglas A. Spencer, age 69, resident of Easthampton, formerly of Greenfield died February 5, 2025 at Baystate Medical Center, Springfield.
Doug was a 1974 graduate of Pioneer Valley Regional School and the Bement School. Doug was known by many in the Greenfield community for his wonderful sense of humor. In his early life, he enjoyed many family outings and slalom waterskiing at Spofford Lake. He loved watching movies, using the computer and especially enjoyed visits to Friendly's for Reeces Pieces ice cream sundaes.
He was the son of the late Ross L. Spencer, Jr. and Carolyn M. Spencer of Northfield and Springfield. He is survived by his sister Linda Spencer and her life partner, Brian Long.
Doug was an amazing person who helped to advance positive change for himself and the disability community. He played an active role in changing the Arc's name to the Arc of Massachusetts which removed the reference to "retardation". He served on the board of the Arc of Franklin County from 1995-1999 and in 1995 was among those recognized by Governor Weld for his exceptional accomplishments in achieving greater dignity, respect and independence for people with developmental disabilities.
In 2023, he was recognized by the Massachusetts Developmental Disability Council and invited to join the board. He was a strong self-advocate and active in the Epilepsy Foundation of New England.
The family wishes to express their appreciation to the residential direct care staff, EMTs and medical providers for their compassionate care over Doug's life including those from Mass General Hospital, Baystate Franklin, Epilepsy Foundation of New England, the Lennox-Gastaut Foundation, United Arc and Valley Medical Group. The family acknowledges with deep appreciation the compassionate care provided by Dr. Tarshish and the Palliative Care team at Baystate Medical Center Springfield.
To honor Doug's life, gifts in Doug's memory may be made to The Arc of Massachusetts or the LGS Foundation.
Kidder Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Interment will be in the spring at the convenience of the family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Douglas Spencer
2 Entries
Courtney W.
April 11, 2025
As someone who worked closely with Doug when he was receiving services from The United Arc, I am saddened to hear of his passing. My deepest condolences to his family.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Brian Long
April 7, 2025
Doug was always true to his convictions, valued family always, shared his excellent humor, and was concerned about my diet. He is greatly missed by family, friends, and immediate care takers.
Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results
Make a Donation
in Douglas Spencer's name
Memorial Events
for Douglas Spencer
People and places connected with Douglas
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Douglas's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Douglas Spencer's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
