Franklin Thurman Spencer

Franklin Thurman Spencer, affectionately known as “Hank” by his buddies, was born on September 6, 1947, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He passed away peacefully on April 25, 2025, in Little Rock, Arkansas, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication to both his family and his profession.

Frank's educational journey began at Fort Smith Northside High School, from which he graduated in 1965. He continued his academic pursuits at the University of Arkansas, earning his bachelor's degree, and later obtained a master’s degree from the University of Illinois. His commitment to education culminated in the achievement of a Juris Doctor while working full-time and attending night school at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock School of Law, marking the beginning of a notable career in law.

Before his legal practice, Frank worked in the sales department at ARKLA Gas in Little Rock. He later devoted the remainder of his professional life to practicing law, where he made significant contributions to the community and earned the respect of his peers.

Frank served his country as a Vietnam Era veteran, having been drafted into the U.S. Army in September 1970. His service exemplified his deep commitment to duty and honor.

He is survived by his daughter, Lauren Spencer, who, along with the rest of his family, carries forward his memory and spirit. Frank is also survived by his brother, Jimmy Spencer, and sister-in-law, Gail; and his sisters: Rosie Lewis and her husband, Dale; Debbie Pike; Sandy Smith and her husband, Mike; and Vicky Mullikin and her husband, Randy. He cherished his relationships with his nieces and nephews, including: Jimmy Spencer Jr.; Celeste Kaelin and her husband, Kevin; Brittany Rowe and her husband, Evan; Lonny Lewis; Tracy Lewis and his wife, Stacey; Tammie Krumm; Amie Zachow and her husband, Larry; Tracie Johnston; Michael Smith and his partner, Reidena Carter; Chris Smith and his partner, Jessica Taylor; Spencer Gladwin and his wife, Lauren; and John Gladwin and his partner, Melanie Rosenthal.

Additionally, he leaves behind 21 great-nieces and nephews, along with eight great-great-nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly.

Frank is also survived by his beloved lifelong friends: Eddie Davis, Ben Brite, Mike Means, and “Big” Sam Scheidler. He shared countless memories with them, including golfing and fishing adventures across the country, and late-night poker games filled with laughter and camaraderie. One of Frank's proudest golf moments, apart from his hole-in-one, was hitting the “four wood shot heard 'round the world” to win a grudge match with his teammate. He was also an avid horse racing fan, having attended more than 50 Arkansas Derbys, where he made lasting memories with dear friends.

Frank is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Betty Spencer; his grandparents, Mark and Stella Spencer, and Charles and Myrtle Brown; and his nephew, Brent Pike.

He will be remembered not only for his legal acumen and contributions to society but also as a devoted family man whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of many. He will be dearly missed and forever cherished by those who knew and loved him.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at Fort Smith National Cemetery in Fort Smith, Arkansas, on Friday, May 9, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.