Robert Hope Spencer, Sr. | Eastern North Carolina Now

Born: January 8, 1952, Died: November 5, 2014

    Robert Hope Spencer, Sr., age 62, a resident of Free Union Church Rd., Pinetown, NC, passed away Wednesday, November 5, 2014 at his home.

    He was born in Bath, NC on January 8, 1952 third child of Emily Windley Spencer and the late Ralph Spencer. Robert was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He attended and graduated from Bath High School in 1970. Robert was employed with D.S. Swain Gas Company of Washington, NC for more than 25 years.

    Robert was baptized at Mt. Zion Free Will Baptist Church of Yeatesville, NC and later joined Holly Grove Disciples of Christ Church in the Sydney Community of Belhaven, NC. He was a faithful member of Holly Grove and served as the Church Percussionist and as a "Walking Deacon" until his passing. Robert was a life-long resident of Beaufort County.

    On June 29, 1979, Robert and Lein Rose Slade were joined in Holy Matrimony. During their 35 years of marriage, Robert and Lein were blessed with the birth of three children. Their relationship as parents was firm and loving. The two sons matured into men, using their father as a role model. Their daughter blossomed into a loving young lady, through the guidance of both parents.

    Robert was preceded in death by his brother, James Taylor Williams.

    In addition to his loving wife, Lein Slade Spencer; and mother, Emily Windley Spencer, Robert is survived by his children; Macana Whitley (Lee) of Washington, NC, Robert Spencer, Jr. of Raleigh, NC and Torey Spencer (Kendya) of Greenville, NC; his sisters, Katherine Vereen of Terra Ceia, NC and Faune Spencer of Durham, NC; his grandchildren, Jaysha and Naiya Whitley, and Halei and Jerzei Spencer; his mother-in-law, Hattie Slade of Washington, NC; his sisters-in-law, Geraldine Windley of New Bern, NC, Avia Ward of Havelock, NC, Regina Stewart of Greenville, NC, Alleyne Slade of Durham, NC, Daphne Slade of Plymouth, NC and Helen Williams of Colerain, NC; his brother-in-law, Harry Slade (Gwen) of Sydney, NC; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, relatives and friends.

    Robert's life can best be described as an inspiration, "Shepherd of His Flock", and faithful Christian. He was generous with his time and talents for anyone who needed them. Though hard, we release Robert to his desire and earned new home.

    A celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 pm, Sunday, November 9, 2014 at Holly Grove Disciples of Christ Church, officiated by Elder Dr. Johnson Hazel. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.