Kenneth Spencer

1936 - 2025

Kenneth Edward Spencer of Roanoke, Virginia passed away Thursday, August 28, 2025. Born in Bowling Green, Kentucky, Ken made his way to the Roanoke area pitching for the Salem Pirates. He soon found employment working for General Electric from where he retired some 42 years later. Ken extended his professional career as the owner of Blue Ridge Consulting where his expertise in inventory management and computer systems remained in high demand.

Ken was a devoted husband and caretaker to his wife, Barbara, during their 62 years of marriage. Ken is preceded in death by his wife Barbara, his mother Mildred Lucille Raymer, and his sister, Mary Spencer Harris. Surviving are his three children, Kenny (Stacey), Deborah (Brian), and Brian (Susan), grandchildren Eric (Miki), Katherine, Austin, Dylan, Annelise, and Maddie, and his great-granddaughter, Kulumi. Also surviving are his sister, Edna Spencer Tunks and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Ken was always looking out for others. As a little league baseball coach, Ken was occasionally asked by other league coaches to assist them in developing their younger pitchers, which he generously did. He was honest and fair-minded and spent many years as a lead umpire for the American Legion. One of our favorite dad stories is about a time when the scheduled plate umpire did not show up for a little league game, and coaches on the opposing team agreed to let Ken call the balls and strikes. In a tight pitching duel, dad's team took the loss.

Ken also spent many years as a volunteer for Junior Achievement where he taught woodworking. Throughout his life he enjoyed sports and coaching and, of course, was a loyal UK fan and a proud, Kentucky Colonel.

Ken will be remembered for his devotion to family, his many stories, and his never-ending sense of humor. A memorial service will be held at the Evergreen Burial Park Mausoleum in Roanoke, Virginia on Saturday, September 13, 11:00 a.m. Friends and family are welcome.