Bonnie J. Spencer

Bonnie June Spencer departed this life suddenly and unexpectedly at the age of 71 on August 5, 2022, at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville, Tennessee. Bonnie was born in Sevier County, Tennessee, on February 24, 1951, to James Mack Spencer and Mary Florence Bales Spencer. The family later settled in Rocky Valley at the foot of Bays Mountain, where Bonnie lived most of her life in the family home. In addition to living with and caring for her parents throughout their lives, she worked all of her adult life in written media, devoting many years to Jefferson County with the Standard Banner. In 2005 Bonnie joined the University of Tennessee Knoxville Registrar’s Office as a communications specialist. She was the graphic designer for the printed university catalogs and was a critical part of getting the catalogs published each academic year. Bonnie maintained the University Registrar’s website, and online undergraduate catalog, working full time as Communications Coordinator until her death. Bonnie was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ throughout her life, first at Cedar Grove United Methodist Church, and later at New Market United Methodist Church. Bonnie served the church in many roles, as teacher, keyboardist, vocalist, choir director, worship leader, liturgist, and preacher. She was a Certified Lay Speaker for many years, filling the pulpit often in the absence of an appointed pastor, and being invited to speak and sing at congregations from several different denominations. With no formal musical training, Bonnie’s powerful acapella delivery and familiarity with heart-rending gospel hymns was a frequent and welcome comfort to many. In the last year of her life she realized her long-time goal of being appointed by the Holston Conference to pastor the two congregations where she had been a member. Bonnie was a talented, accomplished, and devoted servant of God. She leaves a void in the hearts of many that only faith can fill. Bonnie is predeceased by her parents and her brother Carroll Eugene Spencer. She is survived by her brother James Alan Spencer, and nephew Jeffrey Spencer (Brandy). In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to New Market United Methodist Church, Cedar Grove United Methodist Church, and the University of Tennessee. Friends and family will gather to remember Bonnie’s life at New Market United Methodist Church on Saturday, August 20, at 2:00 PM.

Bonnie J. Spencer

February 24, 1951 - August 5, 2022