Hugh Nixon Spencer

After a yearlong fight with Leukemia, Hugh Nixon Spencer, 89, of Alma, peacefully went to be with Jesus on Sunday, February 12, 2023 in his home surrounded by his family. He was born September 17, 1933 in Lavaca to Fred and Ruby (Nixon) Spencer. He was one of four children. Hugh served in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Korea, during the Korean War. He concluded his military career working at the United States Pentagon. Shortly after his military service ended, he met the love of his life, Pat, and they were married in 1958. Hugh and Pat welcomed a daughter, Cindy, in October of 1959, followed by a son, Nick, in July of 1963.

Hugh began working for the Social Security Administration as a claims representative and retired in 1989. Hugh served as a member of The Gideons International for many years and was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Alma. He enjoyed hunting, golfing, meeting up with old friends, and spending time with his family. Hugh had quite the sweet tooth, never meeting a dessert he did not like, surpassed only by his incredibly sweet spirit. He was a devoted father and grandfather, with a great sense of humor always bringing a smile and a laugh. Hugh’s legacy of faith, joy, kindness, and love for his family will continue to live on through generations.

Hugh was preceded in death by his parents, Ruby and Fred; a sister, Jo Ann Butler; and a brother, Rev. Robert Spencer.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Pat; a daughter, Cindy (Jerry) Valentine; a son, Nick (Susie) Spencer; a brother, Bruce (Barbara) Spencer; granddaughters, Cheska (Brett) Neal, and Carleigh (Joel) Tapp; grandsons Cade (Ashley) Spencer, and Cole Spencer. As well as four great-grandchildren, Hanna, Isaac, Crosby, and Willa, and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 16, 2023, at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home Chapel with interment to follow at the Fort Smith National Cemetery, under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren, AR.

Pallbearers will be Nick Spencer, Jerry Valentine, Cade Spencer, Cole Spencer, Brett Neal, and Joel Tapp.

The family will visit with friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home, 4100 Alma Highway, Van Buren, AR.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Gideons International, P.O. Box 1751, Van Buren, AR 72957-1751.