James Kelly Spence of Oil Trough, Arkansas departed this life on Monday, October 23, 2023, at the age of 82. He was born May 12, 1941, in Detroit City, Michigan, the son of Willie Samson and Dolly (Crabtree) Spence.
Mr. Spence was a graduate of Oil Trough High School, where he loved playing sports and was a standout athlete. He and Norma were married on January 2, 1963, and enjoyed over 60 years together. Mr. Spence had a passion for attending and participating in drag racing at Newport Raceway. He was a self-employed farmer and enjoyed going to festivals and camping in Heber Springs. Mr. Spence was a member of the Jehovah’s Witness Congregation of Newport, Arkansas.
Most of all, Mr. Spence loved his family and friends, and cherished spending time with them.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Mr. Spence is survived by his wife, Norma Spence of Oil Trough; one son, Dennis Spence and wife, Shelly; one daughter, Kelly Henson and husband, William Scott Henson; one brother, Eugene Brian Spence; five grandchildren, Brandon Spence and wife, Kimberly, Shelden Spence, Ryleigh Spence, Skyler Henson, and Leanna Henson; and a lifetime of friends.
Friends may visit the funeral home Monday, 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Graveside services will begin at noon at Coffeyville Cemetery. In place of flowers, the family of Mr. Spence is asking that you make a tribute donation to Alzheimer’s Association.
