Dorothy V. Spence

Dorothy V. Spence, a cherished member of her community and beloved matriarch of her family, passed away on March 8, 2025, at the SOMC Hospice Center. Born on September 17, 1937, in New Boston, Ohio, she lived a life rich in love, family, and devotion. She attended Harrison Free Will Baptist Church in Minford.

Dorothy dedicated her career to working as a seamstress for several clothing factories, a testament to her skill and strong work ethic. Beyond her professional life, she was known for her warm spirit and deep appreciation for nature. Dorothy found joy in the simplicity of the outdoors, often spending her time watching and feeding the birds and chipmunks. Her fondness for nature mirrored her love for her family, which was evident in the way she nurtured and supported those around her.

She is survived by her son, Rocky Spence of New Boston; two daughters, Rhonda Edwards of New Boston and Redona Spence (Stephen Blankenship) of Clarksville, Ohio; and her sister, Patricia Bender of Rigerish Addition. Dorothy's legacy will be carried on through her seven grandchildren—Randal Spence, Ryan Spence, Miranda Crabtree, Jeremy Crabtree, Amber George, Chad Smith, and Ashley Smith—and her seventeen great-grandchildren, including Audrey Spence, Emma Spence, Paisley Spence, Harper Spence, Kynslie Spence, Averie Spence, Amberly Crabtree, Clayton Justice, Austin Justice, Tyler Cotton, Jessie George, Hayleigh George, Maddie George, Xaiver Bilinovich, Aiden Bilinovich, Adlyn Smith, and Chance Michael Smith. Additionally, she is survived by two great-great-grandchildren, Winter Cotton and Waylon Cotton.

Dorothy was predeceased in death by her parents, James and Erma (Whitley) Smith; her husband, Donald Spence; her son, Randal Spence; her brother, Vent Smith; and her sisters, Gertrude Holbrook, Arlene Tipton, Georgia Crawford, and Marlyn Allard.

A visitation will be held on March 15, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM, all at Swick Bentley Funeral Home, located at 1104 Harrisonville Ave in New Boston, OH.

Dorothy V. Spence leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and a deep connection to her family, who will dearly miss her presence in their lives. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to SOMC Hospice, 2201 25th Street, Portsmouth,Ohio.