Pastor James Spencer goes home to be with the LORD: “He was a firebrand…”

MANSFIELD — James Morris Spencer, a devout Pastor, faithful husband, and loving father, transitioned from this earthly life to his eternal home in Heaven with his Lord and Savior on February 29th, 2024. Surrounded by his family at his home in Butler, Ohio, the fifty-one year old’s passing marked a significant moment, aligning with the rarity of Leap Day, symbolizing the leap into eternity for a man of unwavering faith.

Serving as Head Pastor at Peoples Baptist Church in Mansfield, Pastor Spencer faithfully shepherded the congregation for nearly twenty-years. Throughout his ministry, James remained deeply involved in soul-winning endeavors, youth and music ministries, touching countless lives with his unwavering faith and compassion. He also established a faith-based drug treatment ministry and also drove a church bus to transport students to church each week.

Reverend El Akuchie of the Richland Community Prayer Network looks back fondly on James Spencer’s involvement in the community. “Pastor James was a firebrand. I always appreciated his steadfast defense for Biblical values in our community. He was not ashamed of the Gospel. Many people looked up to Pastor Spencer, knowing they would never get a bland answer from him. I believe he carried this same zeal and passion on to his children and to the many others he touched.”

Chris Spencer, James’ younger brother, also serves as Senior Pastor at Crestline Grace Baptist.

Pastor Spencer was known to be eccentric and radical in his faith. His hobby included singing to gospel music blaring in his car; one time he was playing his gospel music so loudly, that he got pulled over by a law enforcement patrol! Sometimes the Pastor would get so energized by the Holy Spirit that he would run around in circles. He would also scream (or sing) Psalms 100 to wake up his kids on Sunday mornings. He would exclaim, “This is the day that the Lord has made! We will rejoice and be glad it in it!”

Several Baptist Pastors who partnered in a number of clergy collaborations with Spencer reflected on their impressions of him.

“I have known Pastor James and his family for over twenty-four years,” said Pastor Randy Raynes from Mansfield Fellowship. “His parents were member in my church. From a young man working as a layman in a church to eventual pastor, James has had three passions: staying true to the fundamentals of the faith, actively striving to reach the lost with the Gospel, and seeking a revival of faith among today’s churches. He stood true and strong with a loving heart,” Raynes said.

Pastor Chad Hayes commented, “Pastor Spencer has been a staple to the Mansfield area for many years. He was a faithful soul-winner and a staunch defender of what is right within our community. While he will be greatly missed, the footprint and legacy he leaves behind will still be seen for years to come.”

The full obituary for James Spencer can be seen here.

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Proverbs Eight, “I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.” This passage was hand-selected by Pastor James Spencer for his funeral.

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