OBITUARY: Christopher Dale ‘Chris’ Spencer

Christopher Dale ‘Chris’ Spencer, a beloved husband, father, coach, and lifelong baseball enthusiast, passed away at the age of 54 on July 12, 2024.

Born in Nashville TN and raised in Dickson County, Chris graduated from Dickson County High School in 1988, where he played for the Cougar baseball team. His passion for the game ignited at the age of 9, and he continued playing competitively well into adulthood, participating in adult leagues until the age of 45. Chris was employed with UPS for 20 years.

Chris’s dedication to baseball extended far beyond the diamond. At just 18 years old, he began his coaching career at Buckner Park, igniting a 37-year journey of working with countless young players. He wasn’t just a coach; he was a mentor. He wanted to not only teach the game and skills but create a strong work ethic and character in his players. Over the years, he touched the lives of thousands of kids, leaving a lasting impact on them both on and off the field.

Chris’s enthusiasm for the game was infectious. He was known for his competitive spirit and his memory for details. He even had a creative side and showed that by designing his own uniforms and caps for his teams.

Chris is survived by his wife, Polly and his daughter, Sam who was his pride and joy. He is also survived by his faithful companion, Levi, two aunts, and several cousins. He will be deeply missed by his family, his former players, and the entire Dickson County baseball community.

Chris was preceded in death by his parents Edwin and Nancy Gentry Spencer and by his grandparents, William Aden and Ruby Christine Spencer, and Joe and Hazel Shelton Gentry.

Funeral services will be conducted Friday afternoon, July 19, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. from the chapel of the Taylor Funeral Home. Chris’s friends will conduct the service: Tommy Marvin, Rob Marvin, Mark Ryals, Butch Bagsby and Jamie Malugin. Visitation will be on Thursday beginning at 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Friday beginning at 12 Noon until time of service. Place of rest will be in the Stuart Cemetery. https://taylorsince1909.com

Those desiring, memorials are suggested to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

For more obituaries visit https://dicksoncountysource.com/obituaries/