Ferne Arlene Spencer, 86, of Topeka, passed away on April 22, 2018.

She was born on July 28, 1931 in Rich Hill, MO to John A. and Mary B. Nieder. She graduated from Rich Hill High School in 1949.

She married William “Bill” Spencer on November 14, 1952 in Kansas City, MO. He preceded her in death on June 18, 2015.

In the early 1950’s she was a model for Bette Bonn Modeling Agency in Kansas City, as well as United Film Company. She then worked as a secretary at General Motors and for a legal office in Topeka. From 1990 until 2010 she worked for Topeka Independent Living as a caregiver for two of her grandsons.

Ferne enjoyed participating in the Active Prime Timers, and being a Joy Group Leader at Brookwood Covenant Church following their retirement. She was also a Sunday school teacher, and a member of the Telephone Pioneers.

She loved traveling with Bill, spending time with family and friends, being active in her church, and being strong in her faith. She also loved music (especially Elvis), flowers, and birds.

She is survived by two daughters, Elizabeth Spencer Rabb (Bruce) and Catherine Patterson (Mike); two daughters-in-laws; six grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one sister, Nora Spears of Butler, MO; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; loving husband, William “Bill” Spencer; two sons, Gary and Jim Spencer; two sisters; and five brothers.

The family will receive friends during a visitation from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, April 27, 2018 at the Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel, 1321 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka, KS 66604.

A funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 28, 2018 at the Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, 6th & Gage.

Memorial contributions may be made to Brookwood Covenant Church 3601 SW 33rd St. Topeka, KS 66614.

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