WILLIAM SPENCER BARRETT
November 3, 1949 – May 2, 2020
Fred Spencer Barrett, Jr. and Mary Ruth Russell of Hereford, TX welcomed their first child, Spencer, on November 3, 1949. Spencer graduated from Seminole High School in 1968 and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, NM. Spencer married Denise Stoddard in 1977 in Mesa, AZ. Together they had four children: Nathan, Allison, Lance and Lauren. As an entrepreneur, Spencer’s business ventures moved the family throughout the United States, ultimately settling in Queen Creek, AZ.
Spencer thrived as a father and boss, two roles he took as serious privileges. We remember Spencer as an influential figure in countless people’s lives. “Spencer was a great influence in my life, and I am a better person for having associated with him,” is a common phrase heard by many who knew him. He loved talking with everyone; a generously giving man who took time for every individual who needed his sound counsel.
Spencer’s parents, Fred and Mary Ruth, brother Larry, and niece Lindsey preceded him in death. He is survived by siblings, Rusty (Carol), Danny (Laura Leigh), Becky (Steven) and Andy (Jane); sister-in-law, Cindy; children, Nathan (Erica), Allison, Lance, and Lauren (Victor); grand-daughters, EllaMoret and Zuri; former spouse, Denise; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and special friend, Andrew.
In lieu of flowers, Spencer would say, “Just go get some (ice) cream.”
Private Family Gathering – Spreading of Ashes –Friday, May 7th
Celebration of Life – Saturday, May 8th
We were so saddened to hear of Spencer’s passing and know that he will be missed by so many. We always appreciated Spencer for his great hospitality and love for his family when we would visit. He enjoyed being host which usually included showing us around town, driving to a scenic spot in the desert and taking us out to eat. Growing up we have many happy family memories together and it was never a dull moment on the family farm. Spencer was a great Dad and raised four great kids, along with Denise, that we are so blessed to know and love as well. Rest in peace Spudfarmer58. We will definitely go enjoy some ice cream at Baskin-Robbins in Spencer’s honor! Much love & prayers to your family for wisdom, peace, and comfort during this difficult time, Rusty & Carol
Spencer, you are missed. I appreciate that I could always call you and talk about anything and you took the time to let me ramble, were patient and calmed me down, and you shared your gift of sound reasoning. I listen or sing the Roger Miller song, “Walkin’ in the Sunshine”, and it is great. “Grand Canyon Suite” by Grofe follows and western movie soundtracks. Didn’t we do great with the kids! Most of the credit goes to you Spencer, you were the listener, and the “go to guy”. Thank you for our history. -from your former spouse
I just found out about his passing yesterday. I will always have the fondest memories of him in Las Cruces. I’m lighting a candle in Spencer’s honor.
We were so saddened to hear of Spencer’s passing and know that he will be missed by so many. We always appreciated Spencer for his great hospitality and love for his family when we would visit. He enjoyed being host which usually included showing us around town, driving to a scenic spot in the desert and taking us out to eat. Growing up we have many happy family memories together and it was never a dull moment on the family farm. Spencer was a great Dad and raised four great kids, along with Denise, that we are so blessed to know and love as well. Rest in peace Spudfarmer58. We will definitely go enjoy some ice cream at Baskin-Robbins in Spencer’s honor! Much love & prayers to your family for wisdom, peace, and comfort during this difficult time, Rusty & Carol
Spencer, you are missed. I appreciate that I could always call you and talk about anything and you took the time to let me ramble, were patient and calmed me down, and you shared your gift of sound reasoning. I listen or sing the Roger Miller song, “Walkin’ in the Sunshine”, and it is great. “Grand Canyon Suite” by Grofe follows and western movie soundtracks. Didn’t we do great with the kids! Most of the credit goes to you Spencer, you were the listener, and the “go to guy”. Thank you for our history. -from your former spouse
I just found out about his passing yesterday. I will always have the fondest memories of him in Las Cruces. I’m lighting a candle in Spencer’s honor.