Spencer Young, 82, cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, of Sparta, passed away peacefully, on Feb. 14, 2024, at Signature HealthCARE, of Algood, surrounded by family.
He was born July 14, 1941, in Sparta, to William Martin and Florence Vina Young.
Spencer was always known by friends and in business as “Shorty.” He lived a life marked by determination, dedication, hard work, and love for pleasing and helping others. His journey began at an early age where he quickly learned the value of hard work and determination. Growing up on a farm and his early career at Hudgens TV sparked a passion that led him to establish his own business, Young’s Furniture and then on to open Young’s Produce until 1988, when he retired.
His interests were as varied as they were passionate. He enjoyed metal detecting, antique cars and car shows, playing the slot machine, keeping people entertained by telling jokes to make people smile, and CB radio back in the 70’s.
Spencer’s life was filled with love, work, and play. He left an incredible mark on the hearts of those who knew him, and his memory will be cherished and celebrated by all who were fortunate enough to cross his path. He approached life with a sense of wonder and willingness to lend a hand or share a laugh. His hard-working nature was evident in everything he did, whether it was running his business or caring for family and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Diane Young; two grandchildren, Derrick Brown, Rebecca Long; son-in-law, David Long; and half-brothers and sisters, Grady, Frank, Bessie Claude, Clarence, Milton, LK-Limon, Luther, James Lee and Albert Young, Lena Mae King, Emma Cunningham, Chester, Vester, Aaron, Otis, and Roy Kelsey, Clara Young, Cora Brady.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years (Feb. 8, 1960), Reba Young; daughters, Shirley Young Riddle (Robin), of Cookeville, Teresa Long, of New Port Richey, Florida; son, Billy Young, of Sparta; grandchildren, Chasity Brown Keltner (Shea), of Cookeville, Tim Long (Dannielle), of New Hampshire; Shaelyn Miller (Bradley), Aliyah Young, of Cookeville; great-grandchildren, Chloe Livingston, of Franklin, Lylah Keltner and Finley Keltner, of Cookeville, Nikolai and Milla Phillips, of New Hampshire; and many cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends.
Funeral service was 1 p.m., Feb. 19, 2024, at Oak Lawn Funeral Home, with burial in Oak Lawn Cemetery. Dewey Young officiated.
Oak Lawn Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
