James B. Spencer Jr.

James Bardger Spencer Jr. passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, in his home surrounded by his family.

James Bardger Spencer Jr., affectionately known by many as “Jr,” was born on February 16, 1951, in Detroit, Michigan, to James Bardger Spencer Sr. and Ustine Magby, both of whom preceded him in death. He was born and raised in Detroit and graduated from Western High School in Detroit, Michigan, in 1969.

In 1970, James was drafted into the United States Army, where he began a distinguished military career. Over the course of 22 years of dedicated service, he rose to the rank of Sergeant First Class. During his time in the Army, he served as a Tactical Communications Chief and was deeply committed to instructing and mentoring soldiers throughout his career. His military service took him across the United States and around the world, including assignments in Germany, South Korea, California, Texas, Georgia, Kansas, and many other locations.

While serving in South Korea, James met Deborah Whitby, who was also serving in the Army. Their shared commitment to service and family led to a lifelong partnership. James and Deborah were married on August 1, 1992. Together they shared four children: James III (Camilla), Kenneth, Kaneesha, and Kelsey.

James also pursued higher education while serving his country, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business from Southern Illinois University Carbondale in 1992. After proudly serving his country for 22 years, he retired from the United States Army and settled in Round Lake, Illinois, with his wife Deborah and their children.

Following his military retirement, James began a second career with the United States Postal Service as a Manager of Maintenance, Operations, and Support. During his time with the Postal Service, he was recognized with the Sustainability Globe Award for his contributions and leadership in fostering more sustainable business practices. After 21 years of service, he retired in 2015.

After 43 years of government service, James spent his retirement enjoying time with his family and friends, watching his favorite Detroit teams—the Lions, Tigers, and Pistons—and working on home improvement projects. He will always be remembered for his dedication, discipline, kindness, and deep love for those around him.

James is survived by Deborah, his devoted and loving wife of 34 years; his children, James (Camilla), Kenneth, Kaneesha, and Kelsey; his brothers and sisters, Philip, Sheila (Henry), Jerry, Robbie, Cheryl, and Greta (Michael); his aunt, Bernestine Magby-Fraizer; in-laws: Dorothy L.Whitby (mother-in-law), Darryl Whitby Sr. (Darlene), Gary Whitby II (preceded in death), Kevin Whitby, William Taylor, twelve grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, dogs Barkley and Lion and friends who will cherish his memory.

Friends and family will meet for visitation on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 from 4PM-8PM at Warren Funeral Home, 1475 N. Cemetery Road, Gurnee, IL. The funeral service will take place the following day, Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 11AM at Warren Funeral Home. A proud retired Army veteran, James will be buried at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery on Friday, March 20, 2026 at 10AM.