James R. "Jim" Spencer, Sr.

Jim Spencer, Sr., passed away on December 17, 2020 at Bayhealth Sussex Campus. Jim was born in Ward, West Virginia, son of the late Grant and Vivian (Smith) Spencer. Jim was a hard worker building a career in the carpet instillation industry, for over 40 years. Jim owned his own carpet instillation business and after retirement, Jim worked with Besche Furniture on assembly and furniture delivery. Jim served in the Army National Guard stationed in Bethany Beach, Delaware and was awarded both the Marksman and Sharpshooter badge with Honorable discharge. Jim was the consummate outdoorsman; he loved fishing, spending time enjoying nature, and most especially enjoyed birdwatching. He was also an excellent storyteller, creative and imaginative planning fun skits for family gatherings. Jim also enjoyed music which led to his love of singing and playing the guitar. He started a band called Sidewinder, where he was the lead singer and played guitar. Later in life, he and his companion, Joan, enjoyed karaoke. In addition to his love of music and being outdoors, he enjoyed restoring his ’59 Ford Truck. In addition to his parents, Jim is preceded in death by his siblings; Carl Spencer, Vada Hudson, Irene Tate, Freda Marshall and half-brother Ralph Spencer. He is survived by his two children, Laura Villegas and Jim Spencer, Jr., both residing in North Carolina; his life-partner of 22 years, Joan Vickers; five grandchildren, Joshua Powers, Kelsi Hochstetler, Nicklaus Spencer, Alivia Spencer, and Malena Villegas; four great grandchildren, Hayden Hochstetler, Lana Powers, William Powers, and Adalyn Hochstetler; as well as a host of nieces, nephews and extended family. Due to gather restrictions set forth during the pandemic, a private graveside service for immediate family only will be held at 1:00pm on Monday, December 21, 2020 at Millsboro Cemetery. Those attending must wear a mask and follow social distancing guidelines. In lieu of flowers and because of his love for animals, the family suggests contributions in Jim’s memory to: Brandywine Valley SPCA Dover, where Jim found his beloved dog Missy. Please send to 1212 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester, PA 19380 or online at https://bvspca.org/donate/give/ ,