SYLACAUGA, Ala. – The Sylacauga City Schools Foundation was honored to present its 50th Chair to the memory of Dorothy and Frank Spencer. The chair was given by their five children, Bishop Richard Spencer, Father Robert Spencer, Jim Spencer, Bill Spencer, and Peggy Spencer Fetyko.
Dr. Joe Morton remarked that this is the 30th year of the Sylacauga City Schools Foundation and commended the Spencer children saying, “When five children lose their parents and want a way to honor their memory, the money given to the Foundation will generate more funds for the children who will learn from that generosity.
“One of the 10 Commandments is that you honor your father and mother, and the Spencer children have lived up to that commandment,” Morton said.
Father Robert Spencer said, “Our parents supported education and good teachers. Jesus was the best Teacher because He changed the world. I had the best teachers here at Sylacauga High School because they helped change my world. Our parents would be very happy, proud, and humbled by this presentation.”
“I don’t think any of us can really understand the sacrifices and gifts parents provide for us until we are in that role ourselves,” said Jim Spencer. “This family of seven was headed by a blue-collar worker on one income. But they brought us up to believe that there were bigger things ahead than we could see.”
Bishop Richard Spencer added, “Our parents were our first teachers. They taught us from the beginning everything from world values to how to tie our shoes. We look to enable the teachers of today to teach others along the way.” Spencer then read a poem titled, “Preparing a Child for Life Worth Living.”
Bill Spencer said, “Mom and Dad provided a stable home giving each of us opportunities for personal growth. It was a home were Mom and Dad honored each other and where we learned the values of hard work, mutual respect, and faith. We are all thankful to the Sylacauga school system for good teachers and good administrators providing a diverse education for the Sylacauga community. Thank you for your continued education to the enrichment of the Sylacauga community and Sylacauga schools.”
