757.628.1000

Doris L. Spencer


Sunrise: October 1, 1931

Sunset: July 29, 2022

Doris L. Spencer (Patterson) departed this life on July 29, 2022, at her daughter’s home, surrounded by loved ones.  She was predeceased by her husband, James W. Spencer, parents, Benjamin and Esther Patterson, sons, Prentice Spencer and Robert Brown, siblings, Lilia & Earl Patterson, son in laws, Cleodis Johnson and Darnell Spencer, granddaughters, Danesha Spencer and Bethany Clemons and grandson, Willie F. Clemons Jr. (Frankie). 

Doris was born on October 1, 1931, in Norfolk, VA to Benjamin & Esther Patterson.  She attended Booker T. Washington High School.  Doris had a knack for sewing and pursued a career as a tailor.  She was employed at Cavalier and Liberty Cleaners and as a Dietary Aide for Norfolk School system until she retired.  

During her earlier years, she was a member of the Shaars Social Club”, and she loved playing BINGO.  In her later years, she enjoyed playing “Phase 10 and Scrabble” with her family members and thoroughly enjoyed sharing her wisdom with her grand and great grandchildren who simply adored her, just as she adored them.  

She was a family person and believed in treating everyone with love even if the love was not returned.  She believed that if God was in the center of our family, nothing could come between us.  She was a selfless person and was always willing to give, even if it meant denying herself.   

Doris accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior and joined Olive Grove Baptist Church, where she served on the Usher Board and on the Hospitality Committee for many years.  She loved the Lord and made sure he was first in her life.  On a limited income, she always made sure she gave God his portion first, by paying her tithes and offerings and she also gave to charities faithfully!  Doris prayed daily and did her devotions, EVERY NIGHT before going to sleep.  She constantly reminded her family to pray, accept Christ and give to others no matter what. 

Doris was an excellent cook and known by many for her scrumptious meals, especially “A NICE HOT FISH”.  She enjoyed cooking for her family and friends and opened her home for many summer and holiday family gatherings.  

Doris leaves to cherish her memories, her loving children, 1 son Early Spencer (Patricia), 6 daughters,  Delores Clemons, Joyce Linyear (Dwight), Jennetta Spencer, Judy Williams, Shelia Johnson, Shelby Jones (Jonathan), four sisters, Jane Atkins (Sherman) Barbara Holloman, Helen Bryant and Ernestine Slade, 1 brother Benjamin Patterson Jr. 1 sister in law, Fannie Spencer, 2 brother in laws, Willie Brown and Alfred Spencer, 21 grandchildren, Audrey, Sandy, Michele, Wanda, Darin, Maurice, Charmaine, Charmel, Dori, Brian, CJ, Precious, Tamika, Dawniqua, Dana, Kawon, Jennifer, India, Dionne, Lenice & Davon,  51 great-grandchildren, Brooke, Bryah, Talisa, Savion, Shana, Sheldon, Kevin (KT), Donavin, Scharell, Dreama, Charla, Alicia, Gabby, Yazmin, Yavette, Brianna, Dominique,  Darin, Shanessa, Shadarra, Imani, Kionte, Daron Jr, Shanna, Faith, Keith, Donte, Miracle, Ahsha, Joshua, Jeremiah, Titus, Maximus, Augustus, Leonidus, Chris, Cayla, Corey, Collin, Wintah, Syncere, Charish, Zakiya, Khali, Kawon Jr., Zafir, Joaquin, Spencer, Cameron, Bryelle and Taryn, 8 great-great grandchildren, Elijah, Sanaí, Chanel, Cairee, Cameron, Ethan, Kali & Legacy, 1 special daughter Dawn McQuire and 2 best friends, Anne Pope and Reverend Gladys Bell and a host of other family members and friends.

Viewing Thursday, August 4, 2022 4:00pm - 6:00pm Metropolitan Funeral Service 7246 Granby Street Norfolk, VA 23505 Service Friday, August 5, 2022 12 Noon Olive Grove Baptist Church 1034 Albert Avenue Norfolk, VA 23513 Interment Calvary Cemetery 1600 St Julian Avenue Norfolk, VA 23504

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Condolences(9)

  1. reply
    Linda y Greene says

    Death Message
    As we meditate on the mysteries of life and death,and what the vast eternity may hold, like a bright and shining light comes the knowledge of the promises of God. The darkness disappears…we are content, for with God, all things are right.
    Love your Yvonne your sister

  2. reply
    Velvia Edwards (Val) says

    My sincere condolences to the family. Doris was a inspiration to me. She was a great neighbor and even when I moved we kept in touch. She will truly be missed. God plucked a beautiful rose to carry on work in his higher kingdom.

  3. reply
    June Lieteau says

    I will miss the phone conversations we shared.We laughed and talked for hours. I will miss you Doris.

  4. reply
    Paula Wynn says

    Miss Doris truly was a precious gift of love and grace! Her warmth, kindness, and hospitality made all who entered her presence feel right at home. She was love personified and the epitome of a life well lived! So thankful for her godly example!

  5. reply
    Dr. Lelia Tynes says

    To my dearest Sister/Friends, Dee, Joyce, Nat, Sheila, Shelby,

    Mother Spencer made an indelible impact on my life that cannot be erased. She allowed her LOVE of God be her guide for loving family and welcoming friends into the family nucleus. She opened her heart to “Spread a Little Sunshine” to the Glory of God. Thanks for sharing your mom with me. Know that my prayers are extended your way!
    Lovingly,

  6. reply
    Lula Thornton says

    There is a peculiar beauty about old age- the beauty of holiness.
    Sincere condolences to the Beloved Family of Doris Spencer. Doris was the matriarch to her family, in her community and within her church. May The Holy Spirit comfort her precious daughters, grands, great grands, the entire family and all her many friends.

  7. reply
    Regina C. Brown says

    Regina Brown

    August 4, 2022 at 3:03 pm

    My Condolences to the Family and Friends of Mrs Doris. Mrs. Doris was a very sweet, caring Beautiful Lady. Praying for the Family.

  8. reply
    Davida Davis-Hill says

    My Deepest Condolences, To This Beautiful Family. I Pray In This You Are Comforted To Know She Now Rest In The Bosom Of Our Savior. My Father Was Her Former Pastor, Dr. H A Davis, & He Often Said When He Got To Heaven He Wanted To See Olive Grove. Well, In The Past Few Months Including My Grand Mother Who On July 27th 2 Days Before Mother Spencer & The Day After Her 93rd Birthday Went From Labor To Reward. I know The Cloud Of Witness Are Rejoicing As The Saint Are Marching In. Peace & Blessings.

  9. reply
    Shareen Abdullah says

    Mrs. Spencer was one of the most kind and loving women that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I recall the many times that she would have me to come by her home. My prayers and my thoughts are with all of her family.

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