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James Spencer Obituary
prominent Clearwater Investment Advisor and advocate for all things children and nature, said goodbye to us on February 27, 2025, at age 92. Jim was preceded in death by Sally, his wife of 48 years. He is survived by long-time partner, Barbara Izzi; son, Scott Spencer; former daughters-in-law, Wendy Spencer and Angela Carlton; grandchildren, Dillon, James, Joseph, Ansley, Jennifer, Sally Spencer; and great-granddaughter, Stella Spencer.
Jim's life was shaped by his favorite motto "Destiny is by Choice, not by Chance." He was born in Port Huron, Michigan, and attended Hillsdale College, Notre Dame and the AMP at Harvard Business School. After serving his country in the U.S. Army stationed in Germany, Jim moved to Fort Lauderdale where he and Sally started a family, relocating to the Clearwater area in 1968.
During his successful 60-year career, Jim served on many corporate boards, at home and abroad. He was a long-time member of countless organizations including The Privateers, Belleair Country Club and the Golden Triangle. Committed to the community they loved, he and Sally chaired fundraising events for Morton Plant Mease Foundation, Arc Foundation, Suncoast Hospice and others. They often hosted charitable events at their Belleair home and at "Spencerville," their beach house in Carlouel.
An avid skier, golfer and tennis player, Jim enjoyed the great outdoors, the peaceful, natural beauty of his Bay Brook home and summers at his majestic Monaco retreat on the Mediterranean. Most of all, Jim treasured time with friends and family, especially his grandchildren, and took great joy in enriching their lives through his kindness, wisdom and support. Jim exemplified the very definition of chivalry, and the world is a kinder, more gracious place because of him.
Blessed with a loving family, special friends and good health, Jim truly lived life to the fullest and left with no regrets. He now departs with a "thank you," a smile and a favorite quote, "There is no accomplishment so easy to acquire as politeness and none more profitable."
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Suncoast Hospice or your favorite charity.
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Memories and Condolences
for James Spencer
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susan mary burke
September 8, 2025
remembering Cuba and later New York City
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