Howard Earl Spencer, 50, joined the Lord for eternal joy on February 3, 2023. He was born to Vertie Lee Spencer on October 13, 1972, in Jacksonville, Texas.
Howard spent his younger years growing up in the rural area of Jacksonville, Texas, where he played sports for the Jacksonville High School, graduating in 1991. He was recruited by Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas, for his outstanding scholarship in the classroom and his exceptional football skills on the defensive line. After graduating from Southwestern College with a Bachelors of History and Health PE Recreation, he continued his education at Kansas State University, receiving his Master’s Degree of Science in Special Education. He began teaching Special Education in the Manhattan, KS High School. In 2004, Howard settled in Dodge City, KS where he taught Special Education at the Middle School level. Howard also served the Dodge City community through his employment at Arrowhead West, Inc and Youthville. Howard was employed at the Comanche Middle School at the time of his passing.
Howard was a long-time member of the Dodge City Church of the Nazarene where he facilitated a support group for hurting people, and was very involved with the youth group. He loved Jesus, and also Texas football. He had a great sense of humor and had patience for days. During his football years, Howard was very involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Along his path, Howard touched so many lives through the care he showed,and the love of Jesus he gave, to everyone he encountered. He was always ready with a word of encouragement, and his words always built up those around him. No matter what life situations came his way, he always remained a pleasure to be around and continued to give his life for the benefit of others.In his spare time, Howard was a very avid reader and enjoyed watching sports, especially football. He was also a history buff, as one of the passions of his studies was history.
Howard was preceded in death by his mother, Vertie Lee Spencer, and his grandmother, Sally Emma Stewart. Howard will be deeply missed in his communities as a brother, a friend, a mentor, an encourager, a motivator, a protector, a teacher, and a role model. He leaves a large footprint on our hearts and inspiration within us for how to love those we meet.
The Memorial service for Howard Earl Spencer will be held at Dodge City Church of the Nazarene on Saturday, February 11, 2023, at 10:30 A.M. A reception will follow. There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place.
Memorials are suggested towards the purchase of expanded curriculum for local Special Education students and can be given in care of Dodge City Church of the Nazarene. Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guest book at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.