THOMASTON — Spencer Eugene Smith was born on July 8, 1946, in Houlton, Maine to Obed and Madge (Hogan) Smith. He died after a long illness on September 14, 2022, at the Sussman House in Rockport, Maine, surrounded by loved ones.

Spencer was a graduate of the SMVTI Culinary School. During his career, he was a food service manager at Houlton Regional Hospital and ran his family’s business, the Tower Restaurant also in Houlton. Spencer was the food service manager at the Maine State Prison for 25 years, until his retirement in 2011.

Spencer loved bonfires and taught his kids how to build the biggest and best ones. He enjoyed fishing, boating, and being rescued by the Coast Guard (more than once!). Spencer was a lifelong member of the Elks Club and volunteered for the Maine Lobster Festival for many years.

At any family gathering, Spencer was sure to prepare enough food to feed the entire neighborhood. He had a huge heart and wicked sense of humor, but the funniest moments happened when he least intended them to. Spencer would often say things that were accidentally hilarious, leaving his family and friends crying with laughter while he tried to figure out what was so funny. His family calls these “Spencerisms” and they are now a part of his legacy, whether he meant them to be or not.

Spencer is predeceased by his brother (Stephen Smith), his brother-in-law (David Smart), and his dear friend Peter Smaligo.

Spencer is survived by his wife of 46 years, Barbara (Blake) Smith; sister, Linda (Smith) Smart; son, Christopher and his wife Carrie Smith with their children Emily, Jacob, and Benjamin; daughter Kimberly and her husband Andrew Fitzpatrick with their children John and Joshua; daughter Morgan and her husband Joshua Smith with their children Karl and Elizabeth; daughter Rebecca Smith and her children Jordyn and Malcolm.

He is also survived by many beloved sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews, and dear friends.

The family request that donations may be made to the Sussman House, whose kindness and caring the family is grateful for during Spencer’s final hours. Spencer’s family will honor his life privately.

Hall Funeral and Cremation Services, 78 Main Street, Thomaston has care of the arrangements. To extend online condolences to Spence’s family please visit his Book of Memories at hallfuneralhomes.com