Spencer Michael Bartley's Obituary
Spencer Michael Bartley was born on July 9, 1951, in New York City. Spencer was the second son born to Silas and Angelina Bartley. Both His parents are deceased. He is survived by his siblings John, Steven, Yvonne, and Valerie. Also survived by his sister-in-law, Dorothy, niece, Jolanda, and loving companion, Emmnuelwla.
Spencer grew up in “Boogie Down Bronx,” NY. He attended PS 18, Clarke Junior High School, and Taft High School. As a young man, Spencer loved going to the movies, playing handball, fidgeting with computer gadgets, and roaming New York’s landmarks. He made pocket change by shining shoes, on the street corners in Manhattan with his eldest brother, John. He also worked part-time at Fedco Foods and shared his tips with his siblings.
Spencer was a dedicated educator who had over 25 years of experience with the New York City Board of Education and the Texas Independent School Systems. He often talked about the challenges and rewards of helping to mold the next generation. Spencer enjoyed teaching others.
When the Vietnam War broke out, Spencer proudly heeded the call to service. His military supervisors noticed Spencer’s talents and assigned him to a key role in the medical equipment maintenance unit. He oversaw the maintenance and repair of critical and complex life support systems. As a SP-1 Soldier Spencer helped to preserve the lives of several service members in combat. When Spencer’s call of duty was up, he was discharged with metals & honors.
In 1998, Spencer experienced a major change when he was introduced to Ellen McCall. After a whirlwind romance, they married. Spencer relocated to Mansfield, Texas, and began a new and exciting chapter. They were happily married until her premature death in 2019.
When Spencer came to Texas, he visited various houses of worship and found a church home at Church360. He served in the Video ministry, and Bible Study, and participated in the Men’s ministry. Spencer’s church family really reflected God’s love in his final days. They showered him with expressions of care and attention.
Spencer loved to talk. So, it was no wonder that he joined Toastmasters International, where he won awards for his public speaking and made some lifetime friends.
During Spencer’s Autumn season of life, he met Titilayo Emmnuelwla Solaria. Oh, how Spencer loved Emmnuelwla, who he affectionally called Nuella. They enjoyed traveling and experiencing fine dining. Together, they worshiped God and spent time with friends and family.
During one of Spencer’s last conversations with his younger brother, Steven, they
discussed “Person’s Legacy. His brother made light of the topic, but Spencer
passionately explained why having a legacy is important. He proclaimed
the following: Legacy represents the “us” that remains on earth after we die. We owe an
inheritance to those we leave behind. We owe a debt of love, manifested in us
through our examples in life, work, service to others, and the works of the Lord.
Given this, perspective we announce Spencer’s Legacy.
“Spencer fought a Good Fight…Spencer finished his race…Spencer kept to his faith! He was a “light in the darkness and salt on the earth.”
For this, we are all blessed and so Thankful to God Almighty for Church360, his Toastmasters’ buddies, and Spencer’s medical team.
Thank you,
THE BARTLEY FAMILY
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