Arnold Ray Spence

Arnold Ray Spence, 90, of Fairmount, Maryland formerly of Sanford and Saxis, Virginia passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026 in Salisbury, Maryland following a short illness.

Born and raised on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, Arnold was the son of the late Melvin and Florence Hall Spence of Sanford, Virginia. As a young man, he married Sue Young in 1957 and made their home in Sanford, Virginia. Arnold answered his country’s call and served in the United States Army for two years, stationed in Korea. Following his military service, Arnold build a long and dedicated career beginning with Bird’s Eye Foods, Stockton Chicken Plant, and Holly Farms/Tyson retiring after 30 years of service. He was well respected for his strong work ethic and knowledge of how to fix anything. In Sanford, he was known as the “Handyman of all trades” whenever anything broke down, Arnold Ray was the one called to fix it regardless of whether it was a car, grasscutter, or lamp, everyone knew he had the talents to repair things.

In addition to his handyman skills, Arnold was a talented photographer. Rarely seen without a camera in his hands, he captured family gatherings, special milestones, and the simple beauties of everyday life. His photographs are treasured keepsakes, preserving memories that will live on for generations.

Arnold was predeceased by his first wife, Sue, in 1993. He then married Vivian Hart and moved to Saxis, Virginia. After Vivian’s passing in 2009, Arnold married Suzanne French and moved to Fairmount, Maryland. Suzanne predeceased him in October 2025. In addition to his parents and wives, Arnold was predeceased by one step grandson, David Hart, Jr. also in 2025.

Arnold was a family man. He was a proud father to his only son, Gary, his wife, Sandy and granddaughter in law, Janae Terry, all of Westover, Maryland. He was a steady presence in the lives of his stepchildren who he embraced as his own, David (Beverly) Hart, Keith Hart, Faye (Paul) Bashor, and Lois French along with 5 step grandchildren, 9 step great grandchildren, and 3 step great great grandchildren. He is survived by one brother in law, Jack Young, and three nieces, Carla Zuchel, Tina Haugh, and Joanne Allen. Arnold remained especially close to his two cousins, Dorothy (Spencer) Justice and Linda (MK) Miles who were more like sisters and whose bond with him spanned a lifetime. He also leaves behind a large extended family including numerous cousins and countless friends.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 11 am at Downings Cemetery in Oak Hall, Virginia.

Arrangements are by Thornton Funeral Home in Parksley, Virginia.