Irene J Spencer

Irene Ellis Spencer, one true love of Sidney T Spencer, made her transition Friday, October 10, 2014, surrounded by her family. She joined her son, Dennis, her parents, Arthur and Lily Ellis, and various brothers and sisters who were waiting to welcome her with open arms. Irene had a colorful life filled with travels and adventures. Her first adventure began when she joined the Women’s Army Corps as an 18 year old and left for Japan. She enjoyed traveling so much that after she completed her first tour oversees, she re-enlisted and was then stationed in New Jersey. At a fateful military dance on January 2, 1954, she met Sidney Spencer. He proposed during their first dance, and thinking it was a joke, she accepted. They were married three months later and enjoyed 59 years together.

Irene leaves behind her three remaining children, Donna (Stephen) Vance, Tommi (Ken) Keene, and Sidney (Lisa) Spencer. Her grandchildren Cory, Brandy (Dustin), Heather (Eric), Drew, Dennis, Stephen (Colleen), Christin (Scott), Jeremy (Rudi), Stephanie, and Stacie and great grandchildren Spencer, Olivia, Gwyneth, Alyssa, Jacob, Matthew, Stephen, and Spencer will all miss her and will be told stories about her as they grow.

Irene had many hobbies during her life, including ceramics, cake decorating, gardening, and stained glass. Her stepping stones won her many awards at fairs and club activities. She was an active member of Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church. Members there remember her collection of salt and pepper shakers and her participation in their monthly trips to plays and shows. She also organized weekly Scrabble games with her good friends Lucille, Gena, and MaryAnn. In addition, she was heavily involved with Lawrenceburg F.C.E. and the East End Kid’s lunch program and Christmas programs. Irene enjoyed her life and the time spent in Lawrenceburg. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to her many friends and neighbors who showed her love and appreciation and who helped make her final days happy. In addition, Avalon Hospice and her nurse, Tim, were absolutely wonderful.

In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to St. Jude’s Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.

Funeral service will be at 2 pm, Sunday, October 12, 2014 at Pettus-Turnbo Chapel with Jeffery Young officiating and interment in Pleasant Grove cemetery following the service.

Visitation will be 4 pm to 7 pm Saturday, October 11, 2014 at Pettus-Turnbo Funeral Home.