Obituary of Charles L. Spencer

Charles was preceded in death by his wife Irene Spencer. Charlie Buck leaves fond memories with his sisters Dorothy Waters and Barbara Spencer and a host of other family and friends.

On May 20, 2018, Charles Lawrence Spencer received a call that his work on earth was done. With that said, God called our beloved one home. Born March 31, 1935, in Millington, MD., Charles was the son of Elwood and Mamie Spencer, Golts. MD. He was married to Irene Young Spencer until her death in December 4, 2004. Charles was known by many names such as Charlie, Unc, Spence, and Mr. Spencer are all special names that were used to refer to our beloved patriarch, mentor, brother, and friend.

Charles received his early education in the Maryland Public School System, where he quickly established the reputation of being “a smooth character” and the nickname “Buddy Big Head.” After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served honorably until his discharge in 1955.

Charlie was a hard-working man with careers that spanned over several decades, culminating with positions at BJ’s Wholesale Club (1990 – 2014) and more than 25 years with the House of Wright Mortuary. At BJ’s, Charlie was a Maintenance Associate who was well known for operating the fork lift and sweeper while bringing smiles and laughter to all.   Charlies received accolades from customers and employees. He was also recognized as a BJ Star of the Year.

At the mortuary, he was an instructor, technical advisor, and all around “go to” person. Having worked at a number of the funeral homes in Delaware and the Tri-State area, Charlie was a master in his profession.  At times, he would boast of his ability to make anybody look good. He enjoyed the fact that he was able to impart his skills and talents to the young people in the industry. He watched proudly as his young protégés moved from one skill level to the next.

Spence was a compassionate person who had a unique way of expressing his opinion while showing his love and support. He often said “stop laughing so much, no one will take you seriously!” Though it sounded harsh, we took the translation to mean, I’m proud of you and keep up the good work. During the holiday, Charlie would put on a Santa Claus suit so that young kids in the neighborhood could experience seeing a Santa Claus that looked like them.

He enjoyed being around people. Often, one could see him on the Eastside in downtown Wilmington, sitting in Rodney Square for the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival, or riding shotgun in somebody’s car.

Fond memories rest with those who will miss him the most…Sisters Dorothy Waters and Barbara M. Spencer, Wilmington, DE; grandson,Tommie Goudeaux; nieces, nephews, cousins, devoted friends, and special caregivers Dionne and Dwayne Chapman, Wilmington, DE; Carlton (Buzzie) Williams, Baltimore, MD; and a son he called his own, Justen Wright.