Shirlen Wayne Spencer, 78, of 856 Lazy Lane, Engelhard, and most recently a resident of Cross Creek Health Care Center died Friday, April 20, 2012, at Pungo Vidant Hospital in Belhaven.

Born in Hyde County on Sept. 20, 1933, he was the son of the late Walter “Burl” Spencer and Lessie Lee Gibbs. He was married to the former Betty Sadler, who survives.

He was a member of Engelhard Christian Church, a past member of the Engelhard Volunteer Fire Department and the Mattamuskeet Jaycees.

Shirlen had great love for his grandchildren and his dog, Scooby. He was a UNC basketball fan, and he enjoyed being outside working on his garden. Accomplishing the task correctly was one of his qualities.

He served his country during the Korean War with the U.S. Army.

A funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at Engelhard Christian Church. Burial will follow at the family plot at Soule Cemetery. Scott Sukeforth and pastor Charlie Reber will officiate.

In addition to his wife, surviving are a son, Charles Ray Spencer and wife Merle of Swan Quarter; two daughters, Sharon S. Cahoon and husband Joey of Greenville and Elisa S. Metcalf and husband Darren of Raleigh; seven grandchildren, 2nd Lt. Charles Ray Spencer II with the U.S. Army in Alaska, Cody Wayne Spencer of Swan Quarter, Matt Cahoon and Jenny Cahoon, both of Greenville, Bailey Metcalf, Brayden Metcalf and Delaney Metcalf, all of Raleigh.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Clifford Edwin Spencer.

Memorials contributions may be made to the Engelhard Volunteer Fire Department, P.O Box 296, Engelhard NC 27824.

The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Bryan Funeral Service in Swan Quarter. Online sympathy messages may be made at www.bryanfs.com.