1941
2016
GILBERT, AZ - Gary Allen Spence, 74, of Gilbert, Ariz., formerly of Rio Rancho, N.M., passed away Feb. 19, 2016, at his home after a lengthy illness.
He was born Sept. 12, 1941, in Springfield, Ill., son of the late Bernice and Benjamin Spence.
He was preceded in death by a beloved daughter, Stacy Spence-Liessi.
He and Tamara Hall Spence were married Jan. 27, 1961, in Normal, Ill.
Surviving are his wife, Tami; son, Benjamin H. Spence (Claudette); daughters, Shelly Spence-Wiley (R.J.) and Stephanie Spence-Romero.
"Papa's" pride and joy were his 14 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Also surviving are three sisters: Janet Phillips (Jack), Joyce O'Neill (late Bob O'Neill), Ruth Jones (Monte); sister-in-law, Victoria Hill; and many special nieces and nephews.
His words of encouragement and a life fully-lived will forever shine in our hearts.
A private service and internment will be held in Rio Rancho, N.M., at a later date.
Special thank you to Aegis Hospice staff for their compassionate guidance in his final days.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3 Entries
Ben Spence
February 14, 2018
Miss you and love you and all the times of life you gave us quick wit and positive encouragement teaching us work ethic and respect of all.
Ben Fox
March 3, 2016
I'm very sorry to hear of Gary's passing. I am a distant cousin on the Fox side of the family.
I've talked on the phone with him and many emails have passed between us.
Unfortunately our one planned face to face meeting didn't work out for which I'm very sorry.
Ben Fox
Mary A
March 1, 2016
I am sending my sincere condolences to your family. May you find comfort in this thought found at Isaiah 61:1,2 which reads in part" God sent his son to bind up the brokenhearted and to comfort those who mourn."
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