Alma Yolanda Spencer, a matriarch of unwavering strength and love, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, at the home of her daughter, Gloria. She leaves behind a profound legacy that spans five generations.
Born on August 23, 1933, in Concordia, Mexico—right outside of Mazatlán—Alma grew up embracing the vibrant culture of her homeland. She later moved to El Paso, Texas, where she became a cornerstone of the Central El Paso community for over 60 years.
Alma was a woman who defined dedication. She raised nine children, guiding them through both the sunniest days and the roughest storms. Even when money was scarce, her resourcefulness and fierce determination ensured that her family never went without. She retired after years of dedicated service from the El Paso State Center, a testament to her strong work ethic.
Though short in stature, Alma was famously tough as nails. Life threw numerous ups and downs her way, including the profound heartbreak of burying two of her sons, Guillermo and Richard. Yet, she never shied away from her responsibilities. She always kept moving forward, doing the absolute best for her family. Alma provided a safe, welcoming home that remained open to her children well into their adult years. She was truly the perfect person to raise, protect, and love her family.
Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the unforgettable aromas of her cooking. Alma was an amazing chef, famous for her potato salad, roast beef, enchiladas, potato soup, chile rellenos, legendary bean burritos…etc. No matter who walked through her door, there was always plenty of food for everyone.
In her later years, Alma found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life. She cherished her morning coffee and breakfast, loved going out to eat, and treasured every visit from her family. Gifted with a great sense of humor and a love for conversation, she could talk for hours, especially when reminiscing about her beloved childhood in Mazatlán, and even once told a story about being kissed on the cheek by the famous iconic Mexican singer Pedro Infante. She was a complex lady who navigated major, life-changing events with the required grace and toughness, always choosing to live the best life possible.
Alma’s enduring spirit lives on through her seven surviving children: Stacy Spencer, Gloria Spencer Flemming, Joel Spencer, Audrey Spencer, Rory Spencer, Deborah Spencer Brown, and Darcy Spencer. She is also survived by her 11 grandchildren: Guillermo, Bruno, Leslie, Manny, Kayleigh, Kevin, Brittany, Eric, Isaac, Jacqueline, and Madison; as well as 18 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. She joins her late sons, Guillermo and Richard Spencer, in eternal rest.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 4th from 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm at Funeraria del Angel Central, 3839 Montana Avenue with a Rosary beginning at 6:00 pm. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, June 5th at 10:00 am at Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church, 4805 Byron Street burial will immediately follow at Mount Carmel Cemetery.
