Ray Siebert Spencer

Ray Spencer, 78, husband, father, gardener, passionate home chef, animal lover, textile executive and United States Marine passed away Monday, August 11, 2014. Survived by his wife Trudy Morris Spencer, son Darrell Ray Spencer of Phoenix, daughter Sherrie Spencer Wells of Hickory. He was father to Trudy's children Michelle Rieger Rhoton, Bonnie Rieger Fagan and Chris Rieger since their early childhood. Ten grandchildren filled his life with events, achievements and adventures. He doted on every one. He also leaves behind loving brothers and sisters, all of whom are greater Hickory residents: Pauline Spencer Eckard, Marie Spencer Hefner, Johnny Spencer and Jane Spencer Lindsay. Siblings Louise Spencer Sigmon and Worth Spencer preceded him in their time with us. Son of Russell Siebert Spencer and Junie Hollar Spencer, Ray was born on December 12, 1935 and grew up by the “Three Churches” on Springs Road. A lifelong Lutheran, his powerful faith sustained him throughout his life. He was a member of Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church for eight years after having relocated back to Hickory. A long time textile career started in Hickory where he worked at Carolina Mills in his younger years and later Joan Fabrics. His tenure at Joan fabrics saw his career blossom and eventually led him to work in Lowell Massachusetts for the organization. At one point he was superintendent of production operations in Lowell for four different production facilities comprising over 350,000 feet of manufacturing space. He also spent time at Minnette Mills in Grover, North Carolina and consulted for Cone Mills just prior to his retirement. Ray also was an avid aviator during his life. Airplanes were a keen interest – from bi-wing to fighter jets. He held an instrument rating for a variety of small aircraft and was a member of the North Carolina Civil Air Patrol at one time. His retirement was an active one as he and Trudy traveled extensively. His active mind was always seeking to find what was over the next hill. But he is resting with his Lord now. We will miss him terribly. The family will receive friends Friday, August 15, 2014 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm at Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church. The funeral service will be held Friday, August 15, 2014 at 4:00pm at Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church with Reverend Michael Stone officiating, Burial will follow at St. Stephens Lutheran Church Missouri-Synod Cemetery. Condolences may be made online at www.hickoryfh.com. Memorials may be made to Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church 9379 NC Hwy 127 Hickory, NC 28601. The family would like to say a special thanks to, Dr. Christopher Thomas, Dr. Bitting, and Diana Jean Stindt PA-C of Wake Forest Baptist Hospital. Hickory Funeral Home is assisting the Spencer Family.