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Doris Spencer Obituary
Doris Jean Cammack Spencer passed away on December 30, 2024 after a short battle with Alzheimer's Disease. She was 84 years old. Doris was a native of Washington, DC and a longtime resident of Alexandria, Virginia and Chesapeake Beach, Maryland. As a senior executive in the federal government (retired), the former President of the Alexandria Chapter of the NAACP, and in various leadership roles in Southern Maryland, Doris lived a life of service to her country, and to young people, Black people, and women. She understood the power of using one's voice to affect change, and she used hers often to champion the rights of others.
Doris was a loving mother and grandmother and a courageous advocate for local, small business owners who needed support. Her radiant smile captured the attention of many as did her persistent demands for parity and equal treatment. Doris enjoyed spending time with family in her home states of Virginia and Maryland, and on Martha's Vineyard where she vacationed every summer. She was an enthusiastic fisherwoman who organized fishing expeditions for family and friends. Doris lived life to the fullest, accepted almost every social invitation, and always invited her grandkids and others to the party. You can read more about Doris's journey in the Opinion piece written by her daughter in May 2023 https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/05/09/doris-jean-cammack-equal-rights-activism-travel/
Although Doris is gone, her legacy continues through her work as the founder and former President/CEO of the Southern Maryland Minority Chamber of Commerce; and as Co-Founder, former President and Executive Board Member of Concerned Black Women of Calvert County, Maryland.
She is survived by her brother, Burdette Cammack; her two children, Charles Spencer, Jr. and Patricia Favreau; her beloved daughter-in-law and son-in-law, Jacqueline Spencer and Marc Favreau; her five grandchildren, Shaye Spencer, Jeffry Spencer, Charles Spencer III (Tre), Owen Favreau, and Emmett Favreau; and her three great grandchildren, Avery Romero, Cateleya Spencer and Julian Spencer. She also is survived by multiple nieces and nephews and countless colleagues and friends. Doris's circle was wide, and she will be missed.
Awaiting Doris' arrival in heaven are her parents, William Cammack, Sr. and Olivia Cammack; her sisters Noreen Wake (Sheldon) and Olivia Smith; her brother William Cammack Jr.; her brother-in-law, Clarence Wake; her sisters-in-law, Anne Cammack, and Vivian Cammack; and her longtime companion, Barbara Reid. A Celebration of Her Life will be held on February 27, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Unity of Washington, DC (1225 R Street, NW).
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Memories and Condolences
for Doris Spencer
Linda Joseph
February 27, 2025
I grew up spending afternoons and weekends in the Spencer house as a teenager. I knew Doris to give unbiased, insightful advice on a variety of topics and loved having her to lean on. She was a mother I looked to when I needed one who didn´t judge, but did tell unvarnished truths. I loved her voice and her laugh and have missed it. Love to Patty and Charles.
Edsel Brown Jr.
February 26, 2025
Doris was a titan here in Southern Maryland and across the State. I lovingly called her "Queen Bee" because she had the "Juice" and was a leader's leader. Her determination was second to none and it provided a role model for others to get off their tails to follow. We're going to miss you Queen Bee, but rest easy because we have the baton and wont let it drop.
Southern Maryland Minority Chamber of Commerce
February 26, 2025
Doris was our founder, President, and Chairwoman. Through her grit and determination, our organization has come to be recognized all over the state. From dealing with small businesses, local economic development offices, or testifying on varying business issues in Annapolis, Doris led the way. Our organization will miss her but her dedication and committment to Minority Small Business empowers us all to move ever forward.
Venetta Kent
February 23, 2025
Our deepest condolences to the family and our prayers are with you always. We Love You!
Connie S ODell
February 11, 2025
Calvert County and all of Southern Maryland will always remember and love Doris. Rest in peace beautiful lady.
Lennie Marshall
January 23, 2025
Thank you Doris Spencer for your advice, kindness and love. You played a significant role in my life and childhood. Your smile, distinct laugh and amazing energy will be missed. You set an example for us all to follow and lived life with integrity, honor and respect. You always made me feel welcome and will forever be a second mother to me. Sending hugs and love to the family.
Dorothy Bailey
January 16, 2025
Doris an inspiration and leader in so many ways...Taught me a lot and was included in my book that highlighted
the Reflections and Beauty of Wise Women of Color...Amazing Doris!
Cynthia Ingram
January 13, 2025
Doris was a wonderful person to be around. Although we became friends for a short period where we reside, our long talks and enjoying our entertainment ventures here were so much fun because we enjoyed each other´s company. I will miss Doris. But I know she´s at rest and now I say take your rest my friend.
S Howard Woodson III
January 13, 2025
Doris will be missed by many but her contributions toward the betterment of her people will live on! As one of her "former" presidents of the Alexandria NAACP, I appreciated her tenacity and advocacy while she was our president and hope that my tenure came close to the example she exhibited. Her demands for parity and equal treatment of all Alexandria residents was but one of the legacies she leaves behind. May she rest in peace after a job well done. Sincerely, S. Howard Woodson, III, Esq. Past President of the Alexandria, VA NAACP
Bernie
January 13, 2025
May the Lord comfort the family during this time of grief. Weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning.
Angela Gordon
January 12, 2025
Sending prayers to the family !! May God comfort and strength the family at this time.
Pat Broussard
January 12, 2025
Dear Doris,
You are simply the best. It is hard to imagine a world without your big personality and generous spirit. Rest easy, dear friend. Love you,
Allyson
January 11, 2025
Ms. Doris welcomed me as a new employee at Sky Bridge. She would joke with me about my heels and give me advice. She always greeted me with a smile. Her presence will be missed dearly.
Lauretta Grier
January 10, 2025
My condolences to the family of Doris Cammack- Spencer. She was such a champion for social justice in her community for many years. I worked with her on many community projects, all very successful. She was a champion for many. We will miss her leadership and counsel. Finally, a much- deserved rest, Doris
The Calvert County Minority Business Alliance
January 10, 2025
The Calvert County Minority Business Alliance sends prayers and condolences to the Cammack Spencer family. Doris served as a founding board member where she championed and led the way for small business.
Dawn L. Tucker
January 10, 2025
My sincerest condolences and prayers for the Cammack Spencer family. I am proud to have known Doris and she will definitely live on. I cherish Doris' friendship, mentorship and support. Dawn Tucker
Samuel Williams II
January 10, 2025
Thank for all you did for me. Doris you will always be my champion. Serving the community alongside you was a blessing to my life. I will always think of you. Because of you I have the quote "I know who and who's I am. " You told me I was special. I love you. See you in heaven. You were an earth angel.
Sam Williams II
Margretta Napier Smith
January 10, 2025
Please except my warmest condolences, I am truely sorry for your loss. I will miss our coffee & morning conversations
You will find comfort in loving memories shared.
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