Reba J. Spencer

Reba Jane (Ottman) Spencer of North Syracuse, passed away on May 26, 2024. Reba was born in 1932, in the town of Seward in Schoharie County, New York. She grew up in the scenic farm country surrounding Cobleskill, graduating from Cobleskill Central School in 1950 with honors and second in her class. She was also a member of the National Honor Society. After graduation, Reba worked as a secretary for the Schoharie County Home Extension and continued her involvement as a 4-H Club member, eventually organizing a club of her own. In 1953, she married Ken Spencer; they started a family and moved to Syracuse in 1959. While raising a family, Reba continued her work in 4-H and served over 25 years in the organization. She taught young girls to bake and sew and mentored them in all life skills. Her commitment to youth continued in recent years as a member of the Cicero Youth Board and a volunteer for CanTeen. In 1962, Reba and Ken joined Pitcher Hill Community Church where she served as church secretary, Women’s Guild and Couples’ Club president, and delegate to General Synod. For many years, she managed the kitchen for roast beef dinner fundraisers and organized Caring & Sharing goodie baskets for members who were shut-ins or needed a pick-me-up. Reba worked as a secretary for Campbell Sales and Best Foods, until her last position with the North Syracuse Central School District, retiring in 2000. Reba had numerous interests, including baking, reading, and knitting, regularly donating her knitted items to St. Joseph’s Hospital and Hospice. She was a member of Grange for over 75 years and in 2023 won their lifetime achievement award. As a Syracuse University basketball season ticket holder, she was an avid fan and even attended some Final Four games. Reba was also an active member of the African Violet Society of Syracuse, attending local meetings and the state and national African Violet conferences each year. One of Reba’s personal and most heartfelt ministries was to send cards both to people celebrating milestones or experiencing challenging and difficult times. She was also known for her famous apple pie, which people thoroughly enjoyed. We remember Reba as a hard-working, dedicated woman of faith who dearly loved her family and was committed to bringing people together – friends, neighbors, and extended family. She truly was the glue that connected us all. Reba is survived by her son, Michael and Laurie (Deyo); daughters, Debi and Cathy; grandsons, Collin and Andrea (Morris) and Ryan and MaryAnne (Sharrow); step-grandchildren, Austin Deyo and Kelsie Deyo (Dan Blumenthal); great-grandchildren, Lucas, Sean, Hailey, Jonah, Emerson and Oliver. Reba was predeceased by Ken Spencer, her husband of 46 years, and daughter-in-law, Susan. Celebration of Life will be Saturday August 31 at 2 pm at Pitcher Hill Community Church, 605 Bailey Road, North Syracuse Family will receive friends following services. Instead of flowers, gifts in memory of Reba may be directed to the “Reba Jane Spencer Memorial” at the Central New York Community Foundation, either online at www.cnycflogin.org/givetoafund or by check mailed to 431 E. Fayette St., Syracuse NY 13202.

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Reba J. Spencer

May 26, 2024