Ida Beth Spencer

Ida Beth Spencer, 94, Nevada, passed away Friday morning, Dec. 24, 2004, at Moore-Few Care Center, Nevada, following a brief illness, She was born May 20, 1910, near Walker, to Herbert Victor Thompson and Nellie Emmadella Wareham Thompson. She married Harold Spencer on Dec. 17, 1926, in Fort Scott, Kan. After 73 years of marriage, he preceded her in death on March 12, 2000.

Beth graduated from Walker High School in 1927. She was a member of the First Christian Church, Nevada. She and her husband owned and operated the Spencer Tractor and Equipment Company from 1951 to 1972. They moved to the farm in 1969 where they raised cattle and catfish. Up until recent days, Beth was able to remain independent and living on the farm. She attributed her good health and longevity to eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and staying physically active.

Beth was an avid reader, baker, fisherman, dressmaker, clockmaker, woodworker and quilter.

Beth is survived by one son, Richard Spencer, Tyler, Texas; one grandson, Keith Spencer, Nevada; two granddaughters, Stacie King, Pasadena, Texas, and Both Anne Geesing, Tyler, Texas; and four great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Evelyn Frances Mead; one brother Vernon Victor Thompson, and her parents.

Funeral services will be Thursday, Dec. 30, at 11 a.m. at the First Christian Church, Nevada, with pastor Dave Rorabaugh officiating. Interment will follow in Newton Burial Park, Nevada. Friends may call now and until 9 a.m. Thursday at Ferry Funeral Home and the family will receive friends Wednesday evening, Dec. 29, 7-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to the Vernon County Historical Society, 231 North Main Street, Nevada, MO 4772.