Willie Thomas Spencer, Sr.

Willie Thomas Spencer Sr., 68, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on September 19, 2021. He was a lifelong resident of Massillon, born on January 28, 1953 to the late Homer Spencer and Edna Miller. Willie or “Bay” as we all called him, was one of the greatest running backs in Massillon Tiger Football history. In his first season as a high school running back, he was All-Ohio, rushing for 1,251 yards. Willie was the only Massillon Tiger to play professional football straight out of high school. At that time, he joined The Ottawa Rough Riders in Canada. He spent two years on the semi-pro level which prepared him for the World Football League; where he was known for being a superstar for The Memphis Southmen. He led The WFL with 1,369 rushing yards; scoring 17 touchdowns and averaging 4.9 yards per carry. He also set the record for touchdowns in a single game with a total of 5. He went on to continue his football career in the NFL, with the Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants. Willie was known for calling everyone “Junior” and if you were near and dear to him, he had a unique nickname for you. Willie lived life to the fullest and had a very contagious smile. Willie created an amazing legacy and lived a wonderful life! We invite each of you to keep our father, brother, uncle and grandfather alive in your hearts. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter Latia Spencer; great grandson Demeatrus Copeland. He is survived by his children Kimberly Tavares, Willie (Ilena) Spencer Jr., Tiana Spencer, Damien King and Dominique Spencer; sisters, Marie Hall and Linnett (Blake) Massey; brothers, Robert Earle Spencer, Jerry (Lydia) Spencer, Ricky Spencer and Ronnie (Karen) Spencer; a host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins and friends; special friends, Tina White and Michael McGuire. The family will receive friends for visitation at Friendship Baptist Church, 920 3rd ST SE Massillon on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 from 4:00pm – 6:00pm with a Funeral Service at 6:00pm.