Gary F. Spencer

1939 - 2023

84, of Charleston passed away September 11, 2023 at Hubbard Hospice House after a long illness.

He was born on June 26, 1939, in Charleston, WV, the only child of Frank and Bertha Spencer. Gary graduated from West Virginia University with a Masters in Administration and Management, where he was a Phi Kappa Psi. He was a Major (Ret.) of the United States Air Force and spent his civilian career working as an administrator in state government and the private sector.

Gary dedicated his life to public service and belonged to several civic, professional, and fraternal organizations. He loved the City of Charleston and served on the Board for Multifest and as President of the Kanawha County Heart Association and the Lawrence J. Frankel Foundation. He also spent more than 50 years as a member of the Chelyan Masonic Lodge #158 AF&AM, the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Valley of Charleston (32°), the Order of DeMolay, and the Beni Kedem Shriners. Gary was known as a lifelong Democrat who was active in local and state politics. He was named the Outstanding Young Democrat in WV and the Kanawha County Democrat of the Year and served on the Democratic Executive Committee for both Kanawha County and the City of Charleston.

What Gary accomplished during his life - from earning Eagle Scout as a child to recognition as a "Distinguished West Virginian" in his later years - barely scratches to those who knew him. Gary Spencer Sr. was one of the most kind, caring, and genuine people you would ever meet. He was selfless (to a fault, at times) and would go without to make sure someone else had what they needed. He was charming, brilliant, and told the best stories. His favorite was about that day on June 20th, 1962, when he had a long, private conversation with Harry Truman. Gary never met a stranger and inspired others to always leave a good impression. He was fiercely protective of his children, including the many people who have known him through the years as "Papa Spence." He loved hard. Gary's handshake was always strong and his hugs were second to none. For the many of us who knew and loved him, the world is a little less beautiful without him in it.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Sherwood Spencer and his son-in-law, Steve Childress. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, former Delegate Sharon Spencer of Charleston and his children, Todd Spencer of Raleigh, NC, Gary (Angie) Spencer of Charleston, Kevin Hager of Charleston, Mindi Spencer of Columbia, SC, Sarah Kimberly (Todd) Warner of Charleston, who cared for him in his older age, Jennifer Childress of Charleston, Elizabeth (Chris) Walters of Charleston and Matt (Ashley) Spencer of Belle. He is also survived by his dear cousins and 13 grandchildren, Carey, Gary Wade, Jack, Bronson, Elaina, and Sherwood Spencer; Garrett, Lauren, Madison, Logan, and Lucas Warner; Aubrey and Wesley Walters. Gary will be missed by countless friends, colleagues, and his "Honorary Spencer Kids." Last but not least, Gary is survived by his beloved companion, Captain.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at River Ridge Church, Charleston with Pastor Matt Friend officiating. Entombment will follow in Tyler Mountain Memory Gardens, Cross Lanes. Visitation will be held 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at Fidler and Frame Funeral Home, Belle. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hubbard Hospice House of Charleston, WV or the Alzheimer's Association.

Please visit our website, www.fidlerandframefuneralhome.com, to send the family online condolences or sign the guest book.