James Robert Spence

06/16/1935-8/8/2011

Port Charlotte

James Robert (JR) Spence Sr., 76, beloved father, grandfather, and friend of many gently passed on 8/8/2011 at his residence in Port Charlotte. He is predeceased by his former wife and lifelong friend Dorothy Spence MacDonald of Wareham MA., and mother Ruth of Clearwater FL. Born in Clifton Heights PA June 16, 1935 James moved to Clearwater FL at the age of ten. Later settling in Port Charlotte where he was the owner and manager of Spence Painting and Wallpapering for 25 years. He was most proud of the time he spent in the USAF and serving his country in the Korean War. James in his younger years enjoyed ice skating, dancing, and smoking his pipe. In the later years he enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren, flea markets, and exercising at the gym with daughter Pattie. Those who knew him will talk of his always offering a helping hand to those in need and his ability to make you laugh even when you thought you did not feel like laughing. James is survived by his children; Patricia McIntosh and husband Edgar of Port Charlotte, Fla., Deborah Dudley and husband Scott of Frederick, Md., Catherine Fitzpatrick and husband Mark of Port Charlotte, Fla., James Spence Jr. and wife Sarah of Port Charlotte, Fla., and daughter Susan Spence of Wareham, Mass.

Also survived by 3 grandsons all of Fla. James may be visited Saturday August 13. 3-5 p.m., with a 4 p.m. service, at Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, 2405 Harbor Blvd.