Samuel Spencer, a longtime resident of Ocean Grove, New Jersey, peacefully departed this life at his home on Saturday, September 12, at the age of 70.
Affectionately known as “Sam,” Samuel was born on March 22, 1956, in Neptune, New Jersey, to the late Luther Spencer and Florence Johnson. He was one of 14 siblings.
Sam graduated from Neptune Senior High School in 1975. A phenomenal basketball player, he was revered for his unbridled athleticism and fierce competitive spirit. Throughout his high school basketball career, he earned both All-Shore and All-State honors. During his sophomore year in 1973, Sam helped lead his team to the Shore Conference Class A championship.
A remarkable student-athlete, Sam was legendary both on and off the court. In addition to his athletic accomplishments, he was known for his academic excellence and leadership. He was elected senior class president in 1975 and received numerous athletic scholarships offers, which afforded him the opportunity to pursue basketball at Saint Peter’s College.
Sam went on to excel in many of his other passions and pursuits. He earned a brown belt in karate, served as a minister, worked as a model, and developed an enduring love for automobiles. This passion, coupled with his magnetic personality, contributed to his stellar success as a sales consultant at Circle Subaru.
Sam’s warm, easygoing demeanor, infectious smile, and hearty laugh made everyone he met feel welcome. His calm nature and exceptional interpersonal skills allowed him to connect genuinely with people from all walks of life. Sam never sought recognition for the things he did for others; he simply helped because generosity was ingrained in his character.
Above all, he loved his family deeply. Sam was blessed with three children, Samuel Spencer Jr., Susanna Spencer, and Josiah Spencer, as well as three stepchildren, Kyle Mack with his wife Amanda, Jenna Brown with her husband Aaron, and Julie Mack, and grandsons Lucian, Joshua, and Alexander all of whom he loved dearly.
From the moment Sam and Donna met 25 years ago, she brought love, joy, and a special kind of happiness into his life. Their relationship held a treasured place in his heart. Donna and Sam enjoyed many happy years together, travelling the world with their dear friends, Cindy and Terry, exploring the local food scene, visiting with neighbors and friends on their front porch, and spending quality time and special occasions with family.
Sam was preceded in death by two sisters, Melissa Green and Fannie McNeil, and three brothers, Michael Johnson, Douglas Johnson, and Winfield “Bobby” Spencer.
He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife Donna; six sisters, Earleen Johnson, Valerie Brooks, Patricia Johnson, Barbara Gorrell, Cheryl Hardy and her husband, James and Margaret Lawson and her husband, William; two brothers, Larry Johnson and his wife Wanda, and Luther Johnson. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, a host of cousins, extended family members, and special friends.
****In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Monmouth County SPCA****
