Donald Ray Spencer

Dr. Donald Ray Spencer passed away on June 29, 2023, in Brownsville, TN. He was a father, physician, brother, guitar player, bigfoot hunter, snow cone maker, and his favorite role was “Dandy” to his grandkids.

Born on April 18, 1943, in Goat City, TN. He spent his childhood in Osceola, AR. He graduated Osceola High School where he played football, baseball, and basketball. He then went to the University of Arkansas for Medical School and did his Family Medicine residency at the University of Tennessee Memphis. He served in the Navy during the Vietnam Era earning the rank of Lt. Commander. He then served in the Army earning the rank of Major.

He practiced Family Medicine in Brownsville, TN where he did everything from treating the common cold to delivering babies. He was loved by his patients, and he loved his patients. He loved to participate in the Haywood community. Don was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and volunteered in many organizations in Haywood. He was most proud to serve as the Haywood High School Athletic physician from 1976 to 2006.

He is survived by, his 4 children, Lisa Spencer English, Nathan Spencer (Angela), Jeffrey Spencer (Jeanice), Justin Spencer (Jayme); his 13 grandchildren, RM, Mary Helen, Powers, Hollen, Trevor, Savannah, Kate, Luke, Sophie, Stella, Noah, Ben, and Jack; and his brother Jerry Lee Spencer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Van & Pauline Spencer, as well as his brothers, Billy Wayne Spencer, and Larry Joe Spencer.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his honor to Haywood Athletic Booster Club.  Make checks payable to "HCS Athletic Booster Club" and mail to: Haywood County Schools, c/o Tim Seymour, 900 East Main, Brownsville, TN 38012.  

A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, July 16, 2023, from 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM at the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.  Bro. Jerry Spencer will officiate a private family service.  All arrangements and services are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home in Brownsville, TN.