Mr. Cecil Spencer

Cecil Spencer was born on March 25, 1924 in Booneville, Mississippi. He was the fourth of 12 children born to Zattie and Thomas Spencer. Attending school during his formative years in his home state, he later joined the U.S. Army in 1943. His military service ended in 1946 when he received an honorable discharge. In the years following his army career, he enjoyed an active social, athletic, work and religious life. He loved to travel. As a member of both the Detroit and St. Louis, Missouri Idlewilders’ clubs, he spent many years traveling to Idlewild, Michigan to enjoy the famous jazz musicians that this renowned African-American lake resort offered. There he forged many lifelong friendships and met his future wife, Dolores. They married after Cecil moved to Detroit during the 1960s. At that time he happily embraced the role of parent, helping to raise her three girls. An avid sportsman throughout his life, Cecil played golf, enjoyed walking outdoors, and was an occasional hunter. He also watched, and took part in golf tournaments. He had many golf trophies as silent witnesses to his skill at this sport. Cecil enjoyed listening to baseball and football games on the radio. For many years, he also traveled to support classic black football games, often featuring notable teams from historically black colleges. A man of strong convictions, Cecil's faith was central to his life. He accepted Christ as his personal Lord and Savior at an early age. In Detroit, he joined Springhill Missionary Baptist Church. He was a faithful member there for more than thirty-five years. At Springhill, Cecil was a Deacon, past member of the Board of Trustees, part of the Sunday School Ministry, and sang in the Members' Male Chorus for more than ten years. In addition, he served as a volunteer church caretaker for 20-plus years. Cecil was always ready and willing to lend a helping hand to family, neighbors, and friends. As a result, he had an extended “family” circle throughout the Detroit area. He truly cherished the moments spent with them. In turn, they appreciated Cecil's generosity, ready humor, razor-sharp wit and wisdom. He was also known for his sharp, yet conservative, fashion sense. Always impeccably dressed, he would never go outside without one of his trademark hats. Professionally, he worked as a tool and die maker in the manufacturing industry, including McLouth Steel, for most of his life. A work-related injury ended his career. In recent years, Cecil's life centered around his home due to physical limitations. He departed this life suddenly on December 11, 2013, going to meet his Heavenly Father.

Mr. Cecil Spencer

March 25, 1924 - December 11, 2013