Obituary of John Robert Spence

JOHN ROBERT SPENCE Mr. John Robert Spence, 77, of James Island, SC passed away in his home, surrounded by his family that cherished him, on Monday, September 21 2015. John was born on January 22, 1938 in Veto, Alabama to the late Carl and Mamie Spence. Known for his quiet demeanor, John was a soft spoken gentle giant who enjoyed deer and turkey hunting. During his lifetime, he worked for Royal Typewriter Company as a salesman, Harley Office Machines in Charleston, SC as a service manager, President of Ideal Business Machines in Charleston SC, Outdoor Outfitters, and a partner at Deerfield Plantation hunting lodge in Byrd, SC. His last place of employment was Bishop Gadsden Retirement Community of Charleston, SC. He also served in the Naval Reserves for 8 years. He was a member of the Executive Association of Greater Charleston and Green Meadows Hunt Club. What mattered most to him, however, was his loving wife Judy of 33 years, his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and good friends. John is survived by his wife Judith “Judy” York Spence of James Island; his five children, Lynne Sanders Dillehay (Danny) of James Island, Vickie Spence King of Shelton, Washington, Derek Rickus (Dawn) of Bessemer City, NC, Scott Rickus (Lisa) and Tracey Rickus (Carrie), both of Summerville, SC; eleven grandchildren, George King, Robbie King (Janice), Patrick Sanders, Lauren Rickus, Tiffany Rickus, Coleton Rickus, Devin Rickus, Andrew Rickus, Macie Rickus, Dylan Dillehay and Jacob Dillehay; three great grandchildren, Kadence King, John King Jr. and Jesse King; one brother, Paul Spence (Frances) of Ardmore Tennessee. Funeral services will be held at James Island Presbyterian Church, 1632 Ft Johnson Rd, Charleston SC 29412 on Thursday, September 24, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. with a one hour visitation prior to the service. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Ft. Johnson Road, James Island, SC. The family suggests that those who wish may send memorials to Lutheran Hospice, 1885 Rifle Range Road, Mt Pleasant SC 29464. Flower arrangements should be sent to church office during normal business hours. ARRANGEMENTS BY SIMPLICITY Lowcountry Cremation & Burial Services Inc. 7475 Peppermill Pkwy. North Charleston, SC 29418. 843-767-8057