WILMINGTON — John Joseph Spencer, born June 11, 1952, in Wilmington, North Carolina, passed away on August 29, 2024, at the age of 72.
A true son of Wilmington, John lived his entire life in the city he loved, surrounded by family and friends who will forever cherish his memory.
John retired after over 20 years of dedicated service at W. K. Dickson, where he was a beloved colleague known for his commitment and integrity. His professional life brought him great joy, but it was his personal passions that truly defined him.
He found solace and happiness in the simple pleasures of life, particularly fishing and participating in various church activities. Known fondly by his friends as “Judge” and by others as John E5, he was a pillar of strength and a beacon of light to all who knew him.
John had a deep love for camping, especially with the Bald Head Island Fisco group, a band of surveyors from across North Carolina. For 61 years, they camped together on Bald Head and Masonboro Islands, creating bonds and memories that would last a lifetime. In the winter months, he relished the opportunity to camp along the river with another close-knit group of friends, embracing the beauty and tranquility of nature.
As a member of the Hanover Service Club and a participant in the Wrightsville Beach co-ed softball league, John was always engaged in his community. Yet, above all, family was everything to him. He treasured his wife, Pam, and their daughter, Olivia. Family gatherings, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas at his parents’ home, were moments he held dear, filled with laughter, love, and togetherness.
John is preceded in death by his father, Joseph M. Spencer. He leaves behind his loving wife, Pam Spencer; his cherished daughter, Olivia (Dakota); his devoted mother, Mae S. Spencer; his brothers, Jim (Sandra), Lee (Judy), Bill (Wendy); his sister, June (Brad); nieces, Miranda and Rachel; nephews, Christopher and Alex; and countless friends who were like family to him.
A celebration of John’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation Chapel, officiated by Pastor Steve Hall. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation one hour prior to the service at the funeral home, to share in the warmth and comfort of each other’s presence.
Online condolences may be shared here.
John Joseph Spencer’s life was a testament to the power of love, friendship, and faith. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
In lieu of flowers memorials maybe sent to the Parkinson’s Foundation or to the Kairos Foundation in honor of John.
