SPENCER, Reginald Edgar “Rudy” Spencer

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Reginald “Rudy” Spencer. Born on August 24th, 1955, in Oshawa General to Geraldine and Reginald Spencer. He was the eldest of three sons.

On Sunday, November 23rd, at the age of 70, Rudy passed away in Palliative Care shortly after wife Lianne, son Reggie and daughter Paige, surrounded him with gratitude, peace and love.

During his formative years, his talents and adventurous spirit shone brightly. He shared a close bond with his father, who supported and encouraged his various endeavors. Their mutual appreciation for the outdoors was reflected in the numerous badges and awards earned from the Cubs/Scouts of Canada. Fueled by his vivacious nature and boundless enthusiasm, he embraced any opportunity to experience all that life had to offer, which helped cultivate many friendships throughout his life.

By his mid-20s, Rudy had developed a well-rounded resume that showed his work ethic and his search for a career that matched his skills and interests. Although he had been working for GM, he felt it was not a long-term fit for his professional aspirations. He moved into a house in Toronto with a group of friends, who encouraged him to pursue a career as a Correctional Officer. Before he embarked on that significant venture, fate granted him a moment that he would forever cherish— one evening during a party they hosted, he saw Lianne Spencer, the love of his life, walk through the door.

Once he became a Correctional Officer, he worked hard to earn his place at the Toronto East Detention Centre. Rudy thrived on challenges and instantly became infamous for his legendary wit, comedic timing and indomitable spirit.

On May 24th, 1986, Rudy and Lianne were united in marriage at Glen Ayr United Church, followed by an unforgettable reception at Casa Loma. The beloved couple shared many similar interests, most notably for their profound love for animals, having rescued many over the years. They created a lifetime of wonderful memories together. Rudy and Lianne nurtured each other’s passions—he encouraged her love for dance and the arts, and she supported his endless endeavors to help fight for his fellow co-workers.

Rudy consistently expressed that the most significant blessing in his life was marrying Lianne and was particularly grateful when his in-laws, David and Barbara Jackson, graciously offered to assist them with a down payment on a house for sale across the street. Rudy was determined to repay his debt in its entirety, a commitment he honored. He shared a profound connection with them and was blessed to spend the next 30 years raising his family in that home, ensuring his wife and children would always have the privilege of their presence in their everyday lives. He loved playing horseshoes with family, going camping or cottages, hosting parties and barbecues for family & friends, golfing, fishing and cooking. Lianne is proud her husband had an exciting and meaningful life.

Rudy was a remarkable father to his son Reginald “Reggie” Glendon Jackson Spencer (born Dec. 26, 1991) and daughter Paige Barbara Spencer (born June 2, 1994),
who are honored and grateful for the life he worked so hard to share with him. It was important to him that he instilled his good morals and values into their lives. The proud father lived by example and his perseverance, compassion and humor lives on in them. Both are blessed that their father supported their goals & dreams. He enriched their lives with sports, the arts, fishing, camping, making incredible birthday cakes and had endless adventures and told riveting stories. They adored his cooking and loved that he made sure everyone had something they enjoyed.

Rudy’s happiness came from his close bond with family and friends, along with finding his purpose in being an honourable Correctional Officer. He made a significant impact at the TEDC and carried pride in everything he did. From working in the Special Needs Unit, being a mediator in the Union, helping fight for fellow colleagues, working on the collective agreement and filing many grievances. He stood strong on his morals, bringing hope & guidance to people on both sides of the bars.

Rudy was recognized for his unwavering dedication and integrity. He was awarded The Corrections Exemplary Service Medal. After 40 years of outstanding service, Rudy had to retire to focus on his health. Shortly after retiring he underwent a triple bypass and physically conquered it like a champ. Sadly, there was one complication, the anesthesia had affected his brain and led to a heartbreaking diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. Being a highly regarded and respected Correctional Officer, that diagnosis was a challenging thing for him to accept.

The last few years the Spencer family still faced many challenges, mostly with their health. November 2024, after living 30 years in their Scarborough home, they moved to a beautiful home in Whitby. Once they moved in, the family then moved Lianne’s mom Barbara in with them. Rudy always insisted that his in-laws would be lovingly cared for in his home when age made life more challenging.

Rudy is survived by his loving wife of 40 years Lianne, son Reggie, daughter Paige, mother-in-law Barbara and canine companion Brewster. Leaving a void in their house and hearts that can never be filled. They are grateful for the comfort, understanding and patience they have received during this difficult time.
They would be grateful if all those who have shared stories & photos through social media, to please copy and paste their comments and stories to his obituary page. This will then allow everyone to see these wonderful moments, and the family will have that as a keepsake to keep his memory alive.

The family asks in lieu of flowers that a donation be made to the Poppy Fund of Canada. Rudy supported many organizations & charities throughout his life, but he had tremendous respect for our Canadian Veterans. He strongly believed that donations should go directly to helping Vets where they need help the most and not in the hands of the government. His last Remembrance Day was spent in his hospital bed. His daughter placed her Poppy in his hands and while they held it, she recited the poem In Flanders Feilds for him then shared a moment of silence. While fighting for his life, he still remembered. ~ Lest we forget~

Barnes Memorial Funeral Home.

On Saturday, December 6th, 2025
We will be Honouring and Celebrating the life of Reginald “Rudy” Spencer at
Barnes Memorial Funeral Home.
Address: 5295 Thickson Rd. N.
Whitby, Ontario

Visitation:
12:00pm – 1:00pm
Memorial Service:
1:00pm – 2:00pm
Light Reception:
2:00pm

Visitation