Ruth Eleanor Hornick Spencer

Our beloved mother, Ruth Hornick Spencer, was called to her Lord and Savior on Monday, September 23 at the beautiful age of 90 years old. She was greeted at her heavenly reward by her parents, brother and her husband of 60 years, Bill C Spencer, who preceded her in death in 2006. Ruth was born on the south side of Chicago on March 12, 1923. Ruth was the apple of her dad’s eye (he died when she was 12 years old) and had the tenacity, boldness and self confidence of her mother.

In 1945 a young, handsome airman from Oklahoma was on leave in Chicago and was struck by this beauty sitting at the bar! He made it a point to see who was under that wide brimmed hat, and hence the love affair that lasted 60 years began.

They raised their family in Dallas, TX. Andrea was their first born, followed ten and a half months later by Renée and son, Craig. It was a modest beginning but Ruth was a very creative, resourceful mother and homemaker. She was determined to have the best for her kids, and when the World Book Encyclopedia salesman come knocking on the door, she knew she wanted those for her kids, but money was tightly budgeted. So….She went to work for World Book to earn Andrea, Renée and Craig a set! Hence, the beginning of her career with World Book that spanned over 40 years. Ruth spent her life trying to help others get ahead thru knowledge.

In 1996 the family was transferred to the San Francisco peninsula and Ruth fell in love with the California weather and lifestyle.

For over 25 years Ruth was actively involved in the Federated Women’s Club of Los Altos, CA. serving as president on several occasions and still selling those World Books!

In 1999, Bill and Ruth moved to Sun City in Georgetown, Texas to be closer to family. In 2009 Ruth relocated to El Paso, where her daughter Andrea lives.

Ruth has spent her life being a friend and supporter to many, always enacting gestures of kindness and generosity. She has touched hearts and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Her mantra was always: “It is in giving that we receive”. She was a devoted Catholic; bold in her beliefs and stood firmly on God’s promises.

Surrounded by her children at her passing and left to cherish her memory are Andi Meece (Tom) of El Paso, TX, Renée Jantzen (Gene) of Sun City Georgetown, TX and son, Craig (Beth) of San Francisco, CA.

Grandchildren Matthew Meece, Megan Paul (Zach), MacKenzie Miller, Morgan Buchek (Brian), Connor Spencer, Lauren Spencer and Caroline Spencer.

Great-grand children, Braden, Brody and Brielle Buchek.

Special appreciation goes to her friend and devoted caretaker, Patty Avila and Willie Olmstead with Hospice El Paso.

Funeral Mass for our mother will be Thursday, September 26 at 11:00 am at Queen of Peace Church, El Paso, Texas. Services entrusted to Martin Funeral Home West, 128 N. Resler Dr., El Paso, Texas 79912. www.MartinFuneralHomeWest.com