James Patrick Spencer

James Patrick Spencer, 98, of Phoenix, passed away peacefully at home on May 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born on January 18, 1927, in Rochester, N.Y., to Sarah A. (McKenna) Spencer and Daniel J. Spencer. He was the first of four children. After graduating high school, Jim joined the U.S. Air Force and served in World War II in Honolulu. Following his honorable discharge, he attended Purdue University where he earned a bachelor of science in electrical engineering on May 31, 1953. It is there that he met his future wife, Joanne P. Spencer, who would stand by his side for 70 years.

Jim will be remembered for his generous heart and poem recitals. He made close friends everywhere he went. As dad, he will be remembered for his innovative solutions to everyday problems — approaches that were often funny and always full of love. Whether improvising fixes, building something special, or going out of his way to make others feel seen and cared for, he created the kind of memories that will live on with laughter and deep affection.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Jo; his children: Catherine M. Spencer and her husband, Marcus Farny; James P. Spencer and his wife, Elizabeth, with their children Jonathan “Jack,” Allison, and Nicholas; Daniel J. Spencer and his wife, Nancy, with their children Liam and Amelia; Sarah A. Spencer and her husband, Erik Nicewarner; Erin M. Donahue and her husband, James, with their children Caitlin and Danielle; and Wien Sillevis Smitt, his dear exchange student-turned-daughter from the Netherlands. He is also survived by his brother, Daniel J. Spencer. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Elenore May and Margaret Hurtubise.

A memorial service will be held on June 21 at 10 a.m. at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 8620 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85020, with a reception to follow at Hansen Funeral Home, 8314 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85020.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to your favorite charity.

The family wishes to thank our home health caregiver, Jorge Gaytan from Home Instead, and Hospice of the Valley caregivers for their compassionate care.

May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind always be at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.