LaTonya Nicole Spencer

Latonya Nicole Spencer, affectionately known to family and friends as “Tonya,” was born in Greensboro, North Carolina, on September 25, 1977, to Carol Spencer and Robert Spencer. Tonya passed was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Mrs. Goldie Rowland Spencer and Mr. William Spencer; her mother, Carol Spencer; her father, Robert Spencer; her uncles, David Spencer, Alexander Spencer, and William Spencer; and her aunts, Evelyn Spencer and Constance Spencer. Tonya was raised in Greensboro and received her education through the Guilford County School system. She attended Sternberger Elementary School and Lincoln Middle School, where she was a cheerleader. She later graduated from James B. Dudley High School in 1995, where she played the clarinet as a proud member of the school’s marching band. After graduating from Dudley High School, Tonya entered the workforce and built a career in customer service. One of her earliest jobs was at Mayberry Ice Cream in Greensboro, where she worked as a server and cashier as a teenager. During the late 1990s and early 2000s, she worked at Oakwood Homes, which later became Clayton Homes. She also worked as a representative at Bank of America and furthered her education by taking courses in medical billing at Guilford Technical Community College. Tonya was vivacious, outgoing, and full of life. Those who knew and loved her remember her bubbly personality, warm presence, and unforgettable style. She was fashionable and had a keen eye for detail. Her short hairstyles were unique and bold, becoming one of her signature looks. On any given day, Tonya could be found color blocking an outfit, wearing patterned clothing, and completing her look with dangling or hoop earrings. She also enjoyed modeling clothing for various retail stores. Tonya enjoyed shopping, spending time with friends, listening to music, and eating butter pecan ice cream. She was also a Duke University basketball fan and cared deeply about her family. Tonya was a member of New Jerusalem Cathedral, where she served faithfully in the Greeters Ministry. She leaves to cherish her memory, brothers, Travis Spencer and Tyrell Spencer; a host of cousins and other relatives; classmates; and many dear friends. Her love, laughter, style, and beautiful spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.