Joyce E. Spencer

Joyce passed away, Monday, February 26, 2024, at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo. 

She was born on August 21, 1932, to Donald and Mary (Powel) Thayer. Joyce graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School and Western Michigan University. 

For 30 years Joyce taught 5^th & 6^th grade at Otsego Public Schools. She loved teaching and treasured her students during that time and the 30 years since her retirement. When past students greeted her, they would show special appreciation and gratitude for the way she had impacted their lives.

In her free time Joyce enjoyed reading, computer games, golfing and playing board games. She also liked traveling and attending church. Most of all, Joyce loved spending time with her friends and family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Surviving are her husband, William “Bill” Spencer; children, Dave (Ingrid) Spencer of Otsego and Don (Lisa) Spencer of Grand Rapids; grandchildren, Nolan (Mila) Spencer of Grand Rapids, Brittany (Daniel Boutte) Spencer of Tennessee and Max (Ashley) Spencer of Oregon; 3 great-grandchildren, Odin, London and Madelyn; brother, John (Nancy) Thayer along with many nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Russ and Lloyd Thayer, Helen Holloway, Mary Slaybaugh and Shirley Hoeksema. 

According to her wishes cremation has taken place. 

Friends may visit with Joyce’s family from 2-4 PM, Saturday, March 2, 2024, at the Winkel Funeral Home in Otsego. 

A celebration of Joyce’s life will be held at a later time.

Contributions in memory of Joyce may be made to Pretty Lake Camp, Christian Neighbors, Centrica Care Navigators or to the charity of your choice.

 Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.