William N. Spencer, Sr.

William “Bill” Nelson Spencer, Sr., 94, passed away peacefully at his home in Oxford, PA on Thursday, April 9, 2026.  Born June 19, 1931 in Chester County, PA, he was the son of the late Norman Spencer and Bertha Gravel Spencer.

Bill grew up alongside his two older brothers, Richard “Dick” Spencer of Folcroft, PA, and Robert “Bob” Spencer of Carlisle, PA, both of whom preceded him in death.  Bill graduated from Unionville High School in 1949 and directly thereafter went to work on his family’s dairy farm.  During his long and varied career, Bill built five houses, worked as an outdoor display gardener at Longwood Gardens, served as the property manager for John Rollins’ private estate in Greenville, DE, and ran a successful painting and handyman business.

Bill enjoyed a range of hobbies. One of his greatest passions, which he continued (sometimes stubbornly) until his final years, was gardening.  Summer visitors to his house invariably left with a full stomach and a basket of fresh vegetables too numerous to consume. To help support his family, Bill constructed a greenhouse on their property and grew flowers in the offseason to sell to local retailers.  Bill was a self-taught and skilled carpenter; over the years, he spent hours toiling happily in the impressive workshop he outfitted in his basement.

No description of Bill would be complete without mentioning his love of dogs.  Never was there a time when at least one canine, usually of the hunting variety, was not an adored and spoiled member of the family.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife of 47 years, Marsha, whose love, partnership, and companionship were central to his long and full life. Words don’t suffice to describe the importance of this relationship to Bill.  Together, Bill and Marsha were dedicated members and believers at Christ Church at the Grove, Landenberg, PA.

Bill is also survived by his first wife, Joanne Crossan, as well as their children and their spouses: Joani and Paul Czerwin of Landenberg, PA; Janet and Ron Bruehlman of Ridgefield, CT; and Ted Spencer of Landenberg, PA.  Bill was predeceased by his eldest son, William “Bill” Spencer, Jr.  Bill also leaves behind five grandchildren and five great‑grandchildren.

Bill Spencer will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by family and friends alike.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am on Sunday, April 26 at Christ Church at the Grove, 1772 New London Road, Landenberg, PA 19350 followed by lunch.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Bill Spencer to Christ Church at the Grove.