Dick Spencer

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Richard N. Spencer, 84, of Carthage, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at home. Richard “Dick” was born April 5, 1940, in Carthage to Richard C. Spencer and Dorris Wickstrom. He grew up in the Sarcoxie and Reeds, Missouri area, and graduated from Sarcoxie High School in 1958. 

In Dick’s youth, he excelled at sports, especially baseball; he traveled with the American Legion as a semi-pro player and was scouted by the Chicago White Sox. 

Dick retired from Leggett and Platt after 30+ years. Once he retired, he ranched cattle on the family farm, as well as owning and operating a mowing business. In those days it wasn’t unusual for Dick to trade his lawn services for baked goods. He loved to stay busy outside, and kept a large garden, making sure to grow enough tomatoes to share with family and friends. He liked to walk the woods mushroom hunting, bird hunting, and fishing, and had a big heart for animals. Dick was an avid Cardinals and Chiefs nation fan and was a founding member of the Center Creek Social Club.

Dick was united in marriage to Brenda Baird on January 22, 1988, in Miami, Oklahoma; she survives.

Dick is survived by his wife, Brenda Spencer; a son, Ryan Stone (Greg) of Summerville, South Carolina; three daughters, Michelle Houser, Angela Howrey (Jeff), and Amanda Stone (David), all of Carthage, Missouri; a sister, Patty Wooten (Tom) of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; three nieces and nephews, Tamara (John), David, and Cathy (Bobby); five grandchildren, Tiffanie White, Tyler Howrey (Abby), Isabelle Howrey, Oaklie Howrey, and Mia Miles; three great grandchildren; and one great great grandson.

Dick is preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Dorris Spencer.

A memorial visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at Ulmer Funeral Home in Carthage, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Carthage Humane Society, V. Foundation for Cancer Research, or Cancer Research Institute in care of Ulmer Funeral Home.

Online contributions may be made at www.ulmerfh.com.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.