Charles Howard Spencer
August 8, 1934 - November 27, 2025 (Age 91)
Charles Howard Spencer, 91, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at Park Pointe Village in Rock Hill, SC.
Mr. Spencer was born on August 8, 1934, to the late Jacob and Lottie Spencer, in Hickory, North Carolina. After graduating from Hickory High School and attending Lenior Rhyne college, he joined the United States Navy. Charles spent 21 years as a Naval Officer, where he rose to Lieutenant Commander. He served in Vietnam, flying planes and received the Bronze Star. He completed his BS in Engineering Sciences at the Naval Postgraduate School. He also served as chief of security and air traffic control. After his service, he had a second career as a successful Realtor in San Diego and earned his MBA in Real Estate. He moved to York County in 2006. He was a devoted husband, father, Papa, brother and friend. He enjoyed travelling, golfing, and was an artist who created beautiful Christmas decor. His loved ones will remember him for his gentleness, generosity, sense of humor and love of family. He was truly an officer and a gentleman. He is now at peace in the arms of his Savior.
Mr. Spencer was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife of 46 years, Henrietta Spencer; and his siblings, James Spencer, Kenneth Spencer, and Shelba Marlowe.
He is survived by his wife of 21 years, Ilze Grobecker Spencer; his daughter, Nancy Ross (Les); his stepdaughters, Julie Gorman and Laura Grobecker; his grandchildren Kyle Ross (Abby), and Karly Ross; step-grandchildren Mason Gorman, Sadie Gorman, and Claire Gorman; his sisters Virginia Crocker and Jeanette Baxter; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A funeral ceremony will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 2 PM at Greene Funeral Home Northwest Chapel, 2133 Ebenezer Road, Rock Hill, SC 29732. Visitation will begin at 1 PM. Burial will follow at Grandview Memorial Park – Hollis Lakes, 387 Hollis Lakes Road, Rock Hill, SC 29732. Military honors will be rendered at the graveside.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Mr. Spencer’s name to the Fanconi Cancer Foundation https://fundraise.fanconi.org/SpencerMemorial