Eda Spencer, 102, of Carmel, Indiana, passed away at 4:00 pm, Friday, August 9, 2019, at Carmel Care Center. She was born in Farmington, IL on March 31, 1917, to Alfredo and Johanna (Bianchin) Scapecchi (of Italy). On May 12, 1938, she was united in marriage to Harold Spencer in Peoria, IL, until his passing on November 28, 1970.
She is survived by: her daughter, Susan (Dennis) Mills, of Carmel, IN; her grandchildren, Tyler (Jessica) Gilbreath of West Roxbury, MA; Brooke (Mike) Hoffmann of Western Springs, IL; Dr. Ryan (Jeannette) Mills, of Carmel, IN; and Colin (Dr. Amber) Mills, of Mahomet, IL; her 10 great grandchildren; Sam & Noah Gilbreath; Max, Spencer & Avery Hoffmann; Lilia & Mason Mills; Caroline, Jacob and Heidi Mills. She was preceded in death by her daughter Nancy Spencer Gilbreath, her brother Raymond Scapecchi and sister Helen Scapecchi McGuire.
Eda was a graduate of Farmington High School and Brown’s Business School. She was a small business owner for much of her life. After operating a small resort in Hot Springs, AR, she and her husband returned to Illinois to raise their two daughters in Fairmount, IL where they owned Spencer’s Cafe for nearly 20 years. Eda reinvented herself many times through the years. She worked several years in the Vermilion County State’s Attorney’s office and as a kitchen designer for Cash & Carry Lumber Yard in Danville, IL. She was a past president of the Business and Professional Women’s Club and member of Women In Construction. She was always in motion. After “retirement” she continued working in retail and the restaurant business until age 89. Eda loved her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren dearly. She enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s many activities, reading her favorite authors; Michael Connelly and Sue Grafton as well as working the daily crossword puzzle. Above all, she will be remembered as a kind and giving person. Always putting others before herself.
A celebration of Eda’s life will be held at 1:00 pm. Saturday, August 17th, 2019 at the home of Susan and Dennis Mills. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her name to www.FeedingAmerica.org or www.RonaldMcDonaldHouse.org. Please share memories and condolences at www.IndianaFuneralCare.com.
Debbie mills says
A grand lady and a wonderful grandmother. Much love to all, Don and Debbie Mills
Susan Diel McMahon says
Loved growing up around her and all the fun with her and Harold and my parents. So many memories from my childhood as well as high school hours spent at Spencer’s Cafe!
Jane and Jim Huchel says
Eda was a very special lady, always busy helping someone in need. Lots of memories for quick lunch and drink of an evening. Thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family!! God Bless you all!! 🙏
Amy Brammer says
What great memories I have of Eda! She was a wonderful lady. She was always friendly and kind, and a good friend to others. I will miss her!
Amy Brammer
Summer Trace
Karen Huchel says
Susan and family, I am so glad I knew your mother who was always smiling and friendly and nice. I will share more thoughts in a card.
John and Sara Cast says
I remember Spencer’s Cafe as “The place to be” after grade school basketball games and Mrs. Spencer was always in charge and in control. She always seemed strong, capable, and interested in what I had been up to. She was a Super Lady!
Nola & Jessika Jenkins says
So very sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful person. I am sure you will all have very special memories to hold dear. Prayers for peace and comfort.
John and Nancy Van Vickle says
Very sorry for your loss. Lots of memories at Spencer’s Cafe. Sending you prayers.
Carolyn Riggs Wemlinger says
Dearest Susan and family. I am so sad to learn this. You mom took care of so very many of us and always welcomed hoards of kids after events. Such patience helped us each grow up to be better people. Kindly accept our love, prayers, and sympathy. Best, Carolyn and a John Wemlinger
Melody Knight says
She sounds like a truly wonderful woman. I’m sorry that I never got to know her. My most sincere condolences. Melody Knight
Stacy Gerth says
Susan, I’ve been thinking of you so much. I can tell your mother was one special lady. So very sorry for your loss.