Gary Duane Spencer, 80, of Wilmington, NY, passed away October 29, 2023, at the Plattsburg Hospital in Plattsburg, NY.
Gary was born in Willow Springs, Mo. on November 13, 1942. He was the son of Catherine Latham. He grew up on a dairy farm alongside his two brothers. In high school, Gary met Nancy Garner. Gary graduated from high school in 1956 and he went on to marry Nancy.
Gary worked in the shoe business. Gary and Nancy settled in Mexico where he opened and managed Dale’s Shoe Store. They raised their family in Mexico.
Gary was an avid golfer, taught Judo, loved to play cards and tell jokes. He was a member of the Mexico Jaycees from 1968 to 1974. In 1972 Gary produced the Miss Missouri Pageant featuring Miss America, Phyllis George. He produced the Miss Missouri Pageant a second time the following year. Gary was also the State Field Director.
Gary was preceded in death by his mother, Catherine, and two older siblings, Calvin and Robin. His wife of 64 years, Nancy, preceded him in death on April 28, 2021.
Survivors include two daughters, Donna (Kenny) Smith of Mexico and Tara Spencer of Wilmington, NY; two grandchildren Taliesha and Chase Pettey both of Sarasota, Fla; and three great grandchildren.
Upon Gary’s request, he will be cremated.
