Obituary of Elbert "Ray" Spencer

Elbert “Ray” Spencer of Florence, age 80, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 25, 2024, in the comfort of his own home with his loving family at his side. He was born in Beattyville, KY on April 30, 1943, to the late Orpha “Ma’am” {Spillman} and Clifford Spencer. Ray worked for many years at Champion Windows as a subcontractor. He enjoyed spending time working on old cars, working in his yard and garden, and playing card games- especially Tonk! Ray was always a people person. He loved visiting with friends and family. If you knew him, you’ve probably heard him say “come sit for awhile”. Ray was a good caring person. He was never judgemental and always seen the good in people. Ray was an all around good man who genuinely cared about others. He was a dad, papaw, paps, brother, and friend who will be miss beyond measure.

He is survived by his loving children, Elbert Ray (Jennifer) Spencer, Jr., David Glenn (Julie) Spencer, Eric Ray (Bethany) Spencer, Tanya Raye (Harry) Forgue, Brandi Sue (James) Forgue, and John (Michelle) Boles; daughter-in-law, Lisa Gross; son-in-law, Raymond Sturgill; 27 beloved grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; siblings, Early Gene "Gene" Spencer, Anna Mae "Mae" Horn, and Connie Gayle Branscum; as well as several other close friends and relatives who will cherish his memory.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Esther Spencer; children, Charla Watts, Cindy Cain, Crystal Sturgill, and Chuck Cain; and his grandson, Charles “Punchin” Sturgill; siblings, Flora "Sis" Grubbs, Mary Jane "Toots" Brown, Austin "Auck" Spencer, Ica Campbell, Viola Roach,  Orville "Doll" Spencer, Ernest "Ernie" Spencer, Betty Lee Spencer Gentry, and Carolyn June Jackson.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, May 2, 2024, from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at Chambers and Grubbs Funeral Home, 11382 Madison Pike Independence, KY 41051. The funeral service will begin at 12:00 PM, at the funeral home. Immediately following the service, Ray will be laid to rest next to his wife at Independence Cemetery. To share a memory or to leave an online condolence, please visit the tribute wall above.