Jerry M. Spencer II

It is with heavy hearts but profound peace that we announce the passing of Jerry M. Spencer II, who left this world peacefully at his home in Rio Rancho, NM, on January 5, 2025, at the age of 81. Jerry was born on December 27, 1943, in Santa Fe, NM, to his beloved parents, Jerry M. Spencer and Eloisa Chavez, both of whom preceded him in death.

Jerry was a man of unwavering strength, conviction, and pride. He carried the values of hard work, dignity, and self-reliance throughout his life. His motto was simple: do it right the first time and do it yourself. Whether baking at work, fixing things around the house, tending to his garden, or helping a family member in need, Jerry’s hands were always busy and his heart always generous. A loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, Jerry’s legacy is woven with acts of kindness, love, and quiet strength.

On February 10, 1968, Jerry married the love of his life, Consuelo Spencer, with whom he shared over five decades of devotion, laughter, and mutual respect. Together, they raised two sons, Jerry M. Spencer III and Bruno Eric Spencer, who carry forward his spirit of determination, integrity, and faith.

Jerry’s love for family was matched only by his love for the simple pleasures of life. He found joy in the beauty of nature, whether it was tending to his backyard, fishing along the riverbanks, or resting under a shaded tree with a crossing cool breeze. He would often reflect on the words of his favorite song, Paloma Blanca, as he spent hours caring for his garden or watching classic westerns. The lyrics, “When the sun shines on the mountain and the night is on the run… It's a new day, it's a new way,” captured his spirit — always looking forward to the promise of a new day, a new horizon.

He often found comfort in the song Paloma Blanca, its lyrics resonating with his own sense of freedom and peace, as he felt a deep connection with the world around him. Jerry was like that bird in the sky, soaring above the mountains, free from any chain that could bind him. In his life, he carried a quiet strength, like the refrain of that song — “No one can take my freedom away.”

Jerry was preceded in death by his brother, Ernest Spencer, and his sister, Dolores Martinez, both of whom he loved dearly. He is survived by his wife, Consuelo Spencer, sons Jerry Spencer III and Bruno Eric Spencer (partner James Besso), granddaughters Adrianna Ortega and Gabriela Flores, and three great-grandchildren, Nicolas, Elias (Cruz), and Camilo Ortega. He also leaves behind his surviving sister, Virginia Catanach, as well as 12 nieces and nephews he adored and many great-nieces and nephews. He held a special bond with great-nephews EJ and Josh Lucero.

A devout Catholic, Jerry was a man of deep faith and honor. His relationship with God and the Holy Spirit was evident in all aspects of his life. He attended mass regularly and found strength in his spiritual connection, knowing that his service to the Lord was an enduring part of his journey. Now, he is at peace, serving in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Though his presence will be deeply missed, we find comfort in the knowledge that Jerry’s spirit is now soaring free, like the paloma blanca he so admired. The mountains he loved and the glorious days he cherished are no longer just part of the world around him, but part of his eternal home.

A viewing will be held at 5:00 PM, followed by a rosary at 7:00 PM on January 17, 2025, at Daniels Family Funeral Services, 2400 Southern Blvd SE, Rio Rancho. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1:30 pm on January 21, 2025, at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, 1502 Sara Rd SE, Rio Rancho. Immediately following the Mass, Jerry will be laid to rest at 3:00 PM at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 7999 Wyoming Blvd NE, Albuquerque.

Rest in peace, Jerry. You will forever be in our hearts. “Una paloma blanca... over the mountains you fly.”