With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Dwight Douglas Spencer, a beloved husband, father, papa, father-in-law, brother, and uncle. He peacefully passed away on April 6, 2025, at the age of 70 years, 11 months, and 5 days, at St. Francis Mountain View, MO, in a room dedicated to his mother’s memory for her many years of volunteering. He was surrounded by family during his final moments.
Born on May 1, 1954, in Thayer, Missouri, Dwight was a lifelong resident of southern Missouri. Known for his quiet strength, quick wit, and unwavering devotion to his family, Dwight touched the lives of all who knew him.
Dwight retired as a superintendent specializing in structural steel painting, where he managed projects for MoDOT in Jefferson City. He took great pride in his work, earning the respect and trust of colleagues with his strong work ethic and leadership.
A man with a joyful and colorful spirit, Dwight found happiness in many hobbies. He was an avid fan of Nascar along with his wife on Sundays. He enjoyed yard sales, flea markets, bird watching—especially hummingbirds—fishing, hunting, mowing, and blading his driveway with his tractor. Proud of his red Ford truck, Dwight also had a passion for collecting large-scale semi-truck models, browsing eBay, and staying connected on TikTok and Snapchat. He loved listening to his scanner and keeping up with local events.
Dwight and his wife, Marilyn would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on April 28th. Dwight cherished spoiling Marilyn and keeping her “in line.” He would often spend hours people-watching while Marilyn enjoyed her time in her favorite place—Hobby Lobby—and they always made a stop at Dairy Queen for a Blizzard.
As a father, Dwight took immense pride in his role, always staying in touch with his daughter, Misty. He was her rock, supporting her through life’s challenges and teaching her valuable lessons. When Misty met her husband, Daisaku, Dwight immediately formed a strong bond with him. He prayed unwaveringly to walk his daughter down the aisle in July, and he proudly did so, telling Misty, “You have a good man, and he will make sure you and the kids are okay.”
Dwight’s greatest joy, however, was his role as a grandfather. He adored his grandchildren, Trinity and Asher, and was always there to celebrate their milestones. They were the absolute light of his life, and he cherished every moment with them.
Dwight is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn Spencer of Winona, MO; his daughter, Misty Dixon and husband, Daisaku of Van Buren, MO; his two beloved grandchildren, Trinity and Asher Norris, also of Van Buren; his brothers, Jim Spencer and Joyce Swearingin of Springfield, MO and Jack Spencer and wife, Debbie of Mountain View, MO; his sisters, Wilma Sheets and husband, Jim of Willow Springs, MO, Wanda Smotherman and husband, Dale of Birch Tree, MO, Wilda Miley of Mountain View, MO, and Willa Jo Kramer of Mountain View, MO; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will miss him dearly.
Dwight was preceded in death by his mother, Helen Lois Mae Spencer; his father, Ted Ray Spencer; and his grandparents, Hayden and Martha (Wart) Williams and James and Mary Barr Spencer.
Dwight’s life was filled with laughter, love, loyalty, and purpose. His legacy will live on in the memories and hearts of all who knew and loved him.
“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear.”
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, April 11, 2025, at Yarber Mortuary, Winona, Missouri, with Heath Wood officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 2-3:00 p.m. also at the chapel. Interment will be in Evaline Cemetery, Fremont, Missouri. As Dwight was deeply devoted to family and his grandchildren’s education, we ask that in lieu of flowers, donations be directed to a fund supporting their grandchildren’s education at Southern Bank under Misty Dixon. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.
