Obituary of James Harold Spencer
James Harold Spencer, 82, of Fairmont, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at the Louis A. Johnson V.A. Medical Center in Clarksburg, WV. He was born on March 2, 1942 in Elkview, WV, a son of the late John F. and Ocie J. Reed Spencer. James is survived by his loving wife, Betty J. Watkins Spencer.
James was a graduate of Elkview High School and associated with the Mt. Harmony Community Church in Fairmont. Upon graduating high school, James enlisted in the United States Army, where he served in the Vietnam War. Throughout his military career, James achieved the rank of Sargant E-5, Expert Rifle M-14, and the Vietnam Service Medal and Combat Infantry Badge First Award. James also worked as an electrician with Warren Electrical Company in Myersdale, MD for many years. In his spare time, James enjoyed fishing, spending time with his beloved dog, Angel, and spending precious time with his family.
In addition to his wife, James is survived by his children, two sons, James (Diane) Watkins of Fairmont, and Jeff (Stephanie) Watkins of Fairmont, three daughters, Carol (Mike) Yost of Rivesville, Janet (Robert) Fincham of Farmington, and Kim Spencer of Morgantown, two sisters, Frances Johnson of Charleston, WV, and Ruby Olive of Elkview, WV, thirteen grandchildren, as well as 22 great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by one daughter, Kathy Hicks, four brothers, Rome Spencer, Doc Spencer, Shirley Spencer, and Virgil Spencer, as well as two sisters Carrie Quigley, and Ida Frame.
The family has entrusted the arrangements to the Ford Funeral Home, Ford Chapel, 201 Columbia Street, Fairmont. Friends will be received on Thursday, October 10, 2024 from 1 pm until 8 pm. The funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Friday at 8:30 am with Pastor Cheryl White officiating. A service of committal will be held on Friday at 10 am in the WV National Cemetery with full military honors conducted by the Marion County Veterans Council. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.fordfuneralhomes.com.
