Clayton John Spencer, 75, of Liberal, Missouri went home to be with the Lord on October 26, 2023 surrounded by his loving family.
Clayton was born to Carroll and Rose (Kociolko) Spencer on March 24, 1948 in Pittsburg, Kansas.
Clayton grew up and was a 66-year resident of Mulberry, Kansas where he met the love of his life, Gloria (King) Spencer. Their puppy love turned to lifelong commitment on January 17, 1969. Clayton and Gloria were married for an admirable 54 years. Clayton was raised in Mulberry, Kansas and graduated from Mulberry High School.
Clayton is survived by his wife Gloria; one son, Craig (Kim) Spencer of Liberal, Missouri; one daughter, Courtney Mintz of Wharton, Texas; one sister Carol (Ken) Kunstel of Williamsburg, VA; four grandchildren, Cade and wife Abbey, Carly and fiancé Case, Spencer and Bryson and several nieces and nephews.
If you knew Clayton, you would have experienced the deep pride that he had for his family. He never passed up the opportunity to tell others about his son and daughter-in-law’s success as business owners, or what the grandkids were achieving next. Clayton was a family man and passed down those values to his children and grandchildren that will continue to impact them throughout life. When Clayton’s family was surrounding him, it brought an indescribable peace during the last days of his earthly life.
Clayton had a passion for running heavy equipment and wasn’t afraid to work hard. This led him to a 28-year career in the coal mining field, working for Mackie-Clemens Fuel Company and making his family proud as a third-generation coal miner. Retirement didn’t slow Clayton down, as he spent many summers and busy days running heavy equipment alongside Craig and on the family ranch whenever he got the chance. He became just another “co-worker” always keeping a close eye on those around him. When he wasn’t on the farm, you could find him on his side-by-side riding around Liberal or at Henegar’s Garage.
At the heart of Clayton’s story is resilience. After years of sickness and injury, he was the last to complain. Even in his final months battling cancer, he showed up strong for those he loved, something they will never forget.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother, and paternal and maternal grandparents.
Clayton will be missed most for his onery spirit, one of kind grin, and his ability to give instruction to others.
Mr. Spencer has been cremated according to his wishes. Graveside services will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 4, 2023 at the Rosebank Cemetery in Mulberry, Kansas with Pastor Marcus Campbell officiating. Friends may call Friday, November 3, 2023 at the Bedene Funeral Home in Arma, Kansas to sign the register book and contribute to the memorials. Family suggests memorials to the Mulberry Museum, Franklin Miners Hall Museum, or the Big Brutus Museum. Donations may be left at or sent to the Bedene Funeral Home, 517 E. Washington, P.O. Box 621, Arma, Kansas 66712.
