Thomas Spence, 87

September 8, 1938  –  April 6, 2026

James Thomas Spence, 87, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on April 6, 2026, after a brief illness with metastatic ocular melanoma. Thomas lived a life devoted to his faith, his family, his friends, and his church. He was a man of many talents whose gentle spirit made all who knew him feel deeply loved.

Born on September 8, 1938, Thomas was the oldest son of James Curtis and Loree Funderburk Spence. He was a graduate of University High School and spent his career in the grocery business, working for various grocery store chains including Kroger and Jitney Jungle, and several local grocery stores. For a time, he also owned and operated a small community grocery store, where he enjoyed serving and connecting with others.

Thomas was a faithful and active member of Philadelphia Baptist Church in Etta, Mississippi, where he served with dedication, including participating in numerous mission trips, ministering locally to those in his own community and going on mission to New York, Washington State, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 58 years, Jean Moore Spence; his son, James “Jimmy” Thomas Spence, Jr. (Jamie) of Foley, Alabama; his daughters, Vanessa Williams of New Albany, Shellie Kent (Tim) of New Albany, and Christie Bennett (Dan) of Oxford; his grandchildren, Austin Kent (Kati), Kevin Kent, Kristin Kent Harris, Brittney Edwards (Blake); and his adored great-grandchildren, Mollie Edwards, Rhett Edwards, Dansby Kent, Walker Harris, Cooper Edwards, Daxon Kent, and Leah Grace Harris. He was also joyfully anticipating the arrival of an eighth great-grandchild, Darci Kate Kent.

He is also survived by his brothers, Arlin Spence and Leslie Spence; his sister, Brenda Spence Mock; and many extended family members and dear friends who will remember him for his quiet, humble spirit and steadfast kindness.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Aaron Spence; his grandchildren, Brooke Williams and Chad Williams; and his sisters, Faye Heard and Charlene White.

Thomas took tremendous pride and found great joy in gardening, especially growing tomatoes and tending to his garden during the summer months. A gifted craftsman, he had a remarkable ability to build or repair almost anything and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Above all, he cherished his family. His love for his great-grandchildren was especially evident, as he delighted in spending time with them and was often a willing and loving babysitter.

Serving as pallbearers will be Tim Kent, Austin Kent, Kevin Kent, Blake Edwards, Dan Bennett, John Bennett, Melvin Willard, and Bruce Jenkins. Honorary pallbearers are Bill Clark, Marty Coffey, Joe McNeer, Hugh Grisham, and Mike Mock.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 8th, from 5-8 p.m. at United Funeral Home, with a visitation on Thursday, April 9th, from 1-2 p.m. with the service to follow at Philadelphia Baptist Church at 2 p.m.

Memorial contributions in Thomas’ memory may be made to the Philadelphia Baptist Church Mission Fund by mailing a contribution to 456 County Road 255, Etta, Mississippi 38627.

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.

~