Richard David Spence

In a life that spanned nearly a century, Richard David Spence—father, husband, volunteer, and world traveler—lived with a determination that shaped not only his own story, but those of the countless lives he touched along the way.

Born in Boston and raised in the small town of Belmont, Massachusetts, Richard’s early years were filled with the promise and aspirations of a young man destined for greatness. He would go on to attend Hamilton College in New York, where his love for learning and his competitive spirit led him to pursue a passion for semi-professional hockey, an adventure that would only last six months but left its indelible mark. From there, his journey led him to the Miami Graduate School of Business and eventually into the ranks of Chase Manhattan Bank’s young executive program that propelled him into the national spotlight. The cover of Fortune 500 magazine would soon feature him as one of America’s top five rising business leaders, a testament to his keen mind and unwavering drive.

But beneath his professional accomplishments, Richard’s story was not just one of success in the corporate world. He was a man who never met a stranger. His outgoing spirit drew people to him. He enjoyed sharing his life and creating memories. His love of travel led him around the world—Europe, Australia, Papua New Guinea, Southeast Asia, and China. But it was the sun-soaked shores of the Caribbean and the familiar comfort of Florida’s seaside, where Richard found peace surrounded by his children and grandchildren. There, he would cook his famous banana pancakes, ensuring that love, like the smell of those pancakes, permeated the air.

Richard was preceded in death by his father, William Frederick Spence, his mother, Fanny Price Spence, his sister, Lynda Spence Mittelstadt, and his brother, William Spence. They were the roots from which his life began, but they were not his only legacy. Richard’s life was defined by those who continue in his footsteps—his wife, Wynona Stanford, the love of his later years; his children, Deborah Banton (and her husband Van), Lori Spence, Keith Spence (and his wife Linda), Allison Fox (and her husband Matt), and Cameron Spence; his stepchildren, Heather Cannon and Nick Stanford (and his wife Jennifer); and his grandchildren, Amanda Petroff, Richard J. Petroff, Courtney Lotfy, Evan Spence, Keely Hardaway, Lindsey Francis, Shane Boyce, Tessa Boyce, Aidan Ellsworth, Ashton Sullivan, Avery Stanford, and a growing number of great-grandchildren.

At 60, Richard faced one of life’s greatest challenges: cancer. It was a diagnosis that could have dimmed his spirit, but instead, it became a catalyst for change. He reconnected with his faith in God. He found a new purpose in  helping others, volunteering to offer hope and encouragement to those navigating similar struggles. In those moments, he encouraged and comforted newly diagnosed cancer patients, he gained strength and purpose while helping those who now faced what he had experienced and overcome.

He took solace in his deep connection to God and in his service to others, participating in mission trips to Guatemala with Christ Church. He embraced the simple truth that life is not measured in years, but in the impact one leaves behind.

He was more than a businessman, a father, or a community leader. Richard’s life was one of service—whether as HOA president, guiding his community, or mentoring high school students in financial planning projects. His actions spoke to the belief that giving back was not just an obligation, but a privilege.

Richard David Spence lived a life that mattered—a life filled with adventure, purpose, and love. As the seasons change, his legacy will endure in the hearts of those who knew him and the stories passed from generation to generation.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, November 7, 2024, at Christ Church Plano.

Followed by a light lunch at the home of Richard and Wynona.

The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to cancer support organizations in Richard’s memory. A fitting tribute to his passion.

Richard will be laid to rest at the columbarium of Christ Church Plano.