Rev. James Michael Spence, Sr.

Rev. James Michael Spence Sr. (Mike) passed peacefully at home surrounded by his family on March 6, 2021 at the age of 66.  He was born on August 27, 1954 in Greer, South Carolina to the late Farris Frances Spence and his mother Betty Jo Spence.  At the time of his death, he was serving as the Superintendent of the North Georgia District of the Congregational Holiness Church and a member of the General Committee.  He was an avid golfer, loved Clemson Football, and cherished every moment with his family.  He enjoyed life and lived it to the fullest.  

He was preceded in death by his sister, Bertha Rebecca Spence.  

He is remembered by the love of his life, Karen Martin Spence.  One son and daughter in law, Jimmy and Traci Spence of Hendersonville, North Carolina.  One daughter and son in law, Jennifer and Brad Hendrix of Gladys, Virginia.  He had 4 grandchildren, who were his babies: Kathryn Arnold, Caleb Hendrix, Kaylee Hendrix, and Allie Spence.   One brother, Ronnie Spence of Chapin, South Carolina.  There are also many nephews and nieces, as well as many who looked up to him as a mentor.

Mike served Jesus and his community throughout his life.  He graduated from Emmanuel College of Franklin Springs, Georgia. He served as a pastor in several Pentecostal Holiness (PH) and Congregational Holiness (CH) churches throughout North Carolina, Virginia and Georgia.   Hickory PH Church, Mt. Holly PH Church, North Wilksboro PH Church, Bethel PH Church, Shawsville CH Church, New Hope CH Church.  He served as the Superintendent of the Virginia District of the Congregational church as well.  There were many ways he supported his community.  He also served on the White County Historic Preservation Committee; Chaplain at Cobb Memorial Hospital; as well as many other boards and committees.  He was passionate about photography.  He Ioved taking photographs of everything, especially old barns, nature, flowers, and sunrise at the beach, but mostly his family.   Mike was a licensed radio broadcaster and worked at several radio stations during his career. He also spent many years as a court magistrate in Henry County, Virginia. 

The family would like to thank the entire staff at UCB Athens, Dr. James Splichal, MD and Chuck Davis PA-C, for their care and support.

Funeral services are scheduled for 2 P.M. Wednesday, March 10, 2021 at Union Grove Campground Tabernacle (80 Tabernacle Street, Cleveland).  Rev. Brad Hendrix, Bishop Ronald Wilson, and Rev. James Michael Spence, Jr. will officiate. The body will lie in state at Union Grove Campground Tabernacle from 1:00-2:00 P.M. prior to the service. Interment will follow in the Union Grove Congregational Holiness Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 1-3 P.M. and from 5-7 P.M. Tuesday at the funeral home.

Those in attendance are asked to adhere to social distancing guidelines and to please wear a mask.

To share a memory or leave a condolence with the family, visit barrettfh.com.