Rest in peace Ansel.I will always remember Your and Sonia’s visit to Florida.I will cherish the time you volunteered to assist me in cutting my cake on my fifteenth birthday (1966).He was more like a cousin than an uncle.May Sonia and family find comfort in her great faith in God.
Tribute to Uncle Ansel
Though Uncle Ansel and I only truly connected in the last few years, every moment we shared meant the world to me. Despite the physical distance—him in Canada, me in Florida—our phone conversations were deeply meaningful. Each time we spoke, I felt a sense of peace and admiration. His vast knowledge, especially in engineering, left me in awe. But beyond his intellect, what struck me most was his heart.
Even while quietly facing his own medical challenges, Ansel never hesitated to show concern for my wife, Paulette. He would often call just to check on her—never mentioning himself, always putting others first. That kind of selflessness is rare, and it’s something I will forever hold in my heart. For that, I am eternally grateful and full of respect.
Before our recent reconnection, the only time I had seen my uncle was at my grandmother’s (his mother's) funeral. I remember how proud I felt to see him there—handsome, dignified, and caring. He had come all the way from Canada for that moment, and even though our time together was brief, I longed for a deeper bond. Life took us in different directions then, but I’m so thankful that we eventually got that chance to truly know one another.
To his beloved wife, Sonia—what a remarkable woman you are. A true model of strength and grace. I sincerely hope to meet you one day. My heart goes out to you, and I offer this simple advice: keep Ansel alive in your heart. When the days feel heavy, reach into that vault of precious memories. Take out the laughter, the love, and the moments you shared—and let them bring a smile to your face.
May God bless you, and may Ansel’s spirit live on in all of us who loved him.
With love and deepest sympathy,
Peter and Paulette Spence
To Mrs. Spence and the entire family.
Words cannot express enough condolences to you all on this significant loss to your family. Mr. Spence was a gentle spirit and kind person to all around him and was nothing short of wonderful presence to be around growing up throughout high school.
Mr. Spence you have reached your eternal destination with open gates and a line of angels clapping you in. May you forever hug your family close and remind them you are still around.
To the entire family, from my family to yours we wish you peace and love. May you take comfort in knowing he is with the Lord and will work his smile and dance moves up there to help guide you all.
Love Always,
The Gouveia’s and MocCornack’s (Nikkee and family)
Sam we will always remember your greetings with smiles, your small inspiring talks and the way you watched out for our family. You captured a beautiful memory of our family, we framed it. It is very special to us.
Seeing the family today, brought back so many beautiful memories.
We love you even though we haven't seen each for a long time.
Love,
The Saleh family.
Darwiche, Hayfa, Batoul, Heba, Zainab and Sarah.
I am Robert Stewart.
When I graduated from Kingston technical high school. My first job was the building section in Ministry of education. I worked for 3 or 4 years. One the engineers left to form a consultant engineering firm. He offered me job which I accepted and that’s where I met Ansel. Two young guys learning to handle bigger projects. You would have thought we’d be in competition but we liked each other immediately. And that was the beginning of a life long friendship! I had two type of friends. One type that their idea of fun was to get in trouble. The other type was the type that kept you grounded. Ansel was the friend that kept me grounded.
He had a way of making you believe it was your idea.
We had great times. I once had a flash back of a certain incident. Ansel and I were goofing around and I went overboard. This got a little angry and launched and chased after me. I ran not because I was afraid but because I had no intention of fighting Ansel. Thinking back on it I now realize Ansel didn’t catch me not because I was some secret 100 m sprinter but because Ansel didn’t want to fight me either.
Our friendship continued and Canada beckoned. Ansel left for Canada before me and in those days there was no cell phones. Communication was by letters. Ansel sent me two letters. The first was giving me his impression of Canada and the second was preparing me to what expect when reaching Canada. That was Ansel. Even after arriving to the big city he did not forget his friends at home.
As a matter of fact it was Ansel that picked me up at the airport.
On exiting immigration, we saw this large glass wall, with about a million faces staring at me . I wondered how I would find Ansel. I stepped through the door and there was Ansel standing there, just like Ansel to think ahead. I had a hard time finding a job. Ansel’s workplace was hiring at the time and he arranged a job interview.Not a lot of time was spent in the interview. Back home my wife Yvonne was trying to convince me that everything would be fine . Then the phone rang with the job offer. Soon after starting I realized 2 things. 1.Ansel was well liked by the coworkers . 2. Because of his high skill and work ethic his boss was very impressed. If Ansel recommended you , you were in and because of him a few more Jamaicans were employed.
We started and expanded our family’s. Ansel went east and I went west. We would have liked to see each other more however we always made an effort to stay in touch by phone. I’m not much of a phone person,so he would have to leave a voicemail and then I would get back to him. His voicemail would always be the same…”Hi Bob, Ansel here it is not serious , just calling to see how you are doing and make sure everything is alright” We would start joking around and the start discussing health issues , which we really never understood. I could hear Sonia in the background correcting and explaining things to us. I am going to greatly miss these calls . Goodbye my friend .
We started and expanded our family’s. Ansel went east and I went west. We would have liked to see each other more however we always made an effort to stay in touch by phone. I’m not much of a phone person,so he would have to leave a voicemail and then I would get back to him. His voicemail would always be the same…”Hi Bob, Ansel here it is not serious , just calling to see how you are doing and make sure everything is alright” We would start joking around and then start discussing health issues , which we really never understood. I could hear Sonia in the background correcting and explaining things to us. I am going to greatly miss these calls . Goodbye my friend .
I met Mr and Mrs Spence through a friend that introduced me to Tania many years ago. Every memory I have of Mr Spence is so joyful. I really enjoyed the summer get together! He was always smiling, even through his eyes. He had a young and light-hearted spirit and was also very wise.
I remember one time I was perplexed about men and he explained the male versus female brain..it was quite enlightening and his sense of humor made a potentially challenging discussion very intriguing!
It was an honour to have known Mr. Spence and I trust that God will comfort Mrs Spence and their family. With love, Michele
So long my good friend Ansel
Ansel and I met 45 years ago when I immediately graduated out of Ryerson Polytechnical Institute. During my employment with McLaren Engineers, I reported to the head draftsman, Ansel Spence. He we became friends and we stayed in touch through Sonia’s Christmas updates and occasional phone calls. Ansel, was not only my direct report, but someone who taught me so much about civil engineering and life. He took me under his wing and led me through many engineering projects which I was able to transfer to other employment opportunities.
At McLaren we were a core group of individuals that shared many memories and stories. He being Jamaican, and I being of Italian descent, we saw things alike. He was like a big brother to me. He was our videographer at our wedding. I went on to other employment opportunities, while Ansel remained with McLaren and the subsequent companies that bought McLaren out. Loyal to his employment.
During one of my calls with my friend Ansel, he shared some of his medical challenges. I marveled at his endurance, stamina and drive to continue with work. Nothing was holding him back to continue working well into his senior years, all while accepting his physical limitations.
He was a quite spoken and humble individual who shared his wisdom and knowledge unconditionally. In January I felt a need to see Ansel in person. Unfortunately, that would be the last time I would see him. We shared a few hours reminiscing about the past, where life has led us, our families and our time together. He continued to remain positive about his outlook and his life.
His passing saddens me terribly. I will miss our conversations and his words of wisdom. I was so glad that I was able to see him recently. I will miss his unmistakable Jamaican accent, his confidence and stature.
Rest in peace my friend, and guide those whom you have left behind.
Your friend Italo Brutto
Through every one of our encounters the past 15 or so years I was always happy to be in Sam's presence. I repeatedly felt he was a person I wanted to know better and to spend more time with. See you later, Sam. One day we shall all be together.
To the Family of my dear deceased cousin, I send love and God’s Blessings.
Ansel, as the family called him, was a treasure. He was easy going and reflected love and peace among us cousins; and there was a lot of us.
As children we would gather at Christmas and summer holidays in Kingston, during the week. Both my brother George, and cousins Dins, went to their eternal rest before. Valerie, Ansel and I spent a lot of time on Orange Street. It seemed like our family, the Spences, had many stores on Orange Street in those days, George and I would walk from one uncle’s store to the other. We were the cousins that came to “Towne” form the Country, yes the country cousins from Savanna-la-mar (smile). Dins Ansel and Valerie were the Kingston gang.
After leaving High School, we all went our various ways, I went to New York. However, page forward when Ansel and I reunited by phone some forty years later it felt just like the day before. Whenever we called each other, we would chat for over an hour. We spoke about our youth, family members, our traditions, politics and world affairs. Just listening to him I could always hear a smile in his voice, one of peace.
I mostly admired my cousin for the way he was so positive, handling his sickness and pain with such grace. I would tell him that I was so amazed by his positive attitude, looking at the glass half full, which I do too, gave me more purpose. I could go on and on, but you all who knew him knew of all his attributes.
My CUZ, yes you fought a very long courageous fight, rest in Peace in our Saviour’s Arms.
Noeline
Cecil Chin, Mississauga
To Sonia and family,
Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. Sam was a cherished member of our Saturday morning breakfast group for nearly two decades. His warmth, kindness, and unwavering friendship were a source of joy and comfort to all who gathered around the table with him each week.
Over the years, Sam’s presence became a treasured part of our lives. His laughter, thoughtful insights, and gentle spirit left a lasting mark on our hearts.
May you find comfort in knowing how much Sam meant to his friends, and in the knowledge that his legacy of friendship and goodwill continues to live on. Our thoughts are with you during this time of sorrow.
With heartfelt sympathy,
He was an elegant dancer, skillful and striking. In the ballroom of life, he and the queen of his passion, Sonia, danced.
She was there all along, through laughter and some tears, through the many years they were together building a life, and a family that grew with so much love and staunch dedication.
To his children, Ansel gave his devotion, nurtured them with unconditional love and the ideals of dignity. They brought joy into his life.
To all his grandchildren, Grandpa Ansel was the pillar of kindness and generosity and the warmth of love everlasting. He will be watching over them from the heavens above.
Samuel Ansel Spence lived an illustrious life, distinguished and remarkable. And through it all, he stood tall.
He will be greatly missed.
Ansel tribute
Sonia, your beloved husband was a kind and beautiful soul.
Ansel touched the lives of many with his warmth, generosity, and quiet strength.
He was a true friend, always present and always willing to help.
Sending love, comfort, and strength to the family . May his soul Rest In Peace.
Condolence
Sorry, that you have left us earlier. We were so lucky that we were able to spend the time together with you, Sonia, myself, Lily, Ken and Teresa early this year. All I want to say is that with your support, Sonia was able to teach me and Lily about the word of God. Thank you.
I met Ansel as an adult and found him to be very welcoming and warm, as he interacted with my sons and I for the first time. He along with his wife Sonia, always greeted us cheerfully whenever we visited, making us feel comfortable in their presence. I remember how happy he was to celebrate with my mom and family, on her ninetieth birthday party via Zoom. He later expressed his joy and appreciation in a telephone conversation after the event. As I intereacted with him over the years, whether in person or via telephone conversations, he displayed a rather pleasant and humble disposition. I also observed him to be of a quiet demeanour, genuine and quite powerful in his words and actions. Be at Peace Ansel! May God continue to Comfort you and your family Sonia.
Sonia, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My deepest condolences to you and the entire family during this difficult time. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Grandpa (Sam) was an amazing man whose kindness touched so many lives, including my family. I first met him two years ago while taking my children to school, and from that day, both Grandpa and Grandma (Sam and Sonia) welcomed us with such warmth and sincerity.
As our neighbour, he became a constant source of encouragement and support. His thoughtful words and gentle spirit brightened our days, and his wisdom was always shared generously. He had a way of making everyone feel valued and cared for.
His kindness extended far beyond polite conversation. Whether offering a helping hand or simply taking the time to listen, he showed a genuine compassion that is rare and precious. My family and I will forever be grateful for the fatherly care and guidance he offered us.
Grandma: May the Lord grant you comfort and peace in this trying time. As Scripture says, “The memory of the righteous is a blessing” (Proverbs 10:7). We will remember him with great respect and gratitude, and his legacy of kindness will live on in all who knew him.
David & Victoria Owolabi
I met Ansel when I was about eight years old as I often spent time with his family in Vineyard Town. My mom and his parents were very close so it was not surprising that when my mom migrated to the U.S I was boarded with the family at Knightsdale drive,. I also attended Excelsior and Ansel treated me as a sister and well as being my mentor.
There wasn't an Anglican Church in the neighborhood so the now church of the Transfiguration started in the living room at Knightsdale Drive. It is fair to say we were founding members. I am not a pianist but Ansel taught me to play chop sticks and some other melodies that I still remember today.
Ansel was kind and soft spoken always with a smile just like his dad. He was very particular about school and his need to further his education. I remember one of his first project was his participation in the design of one of the first houses perched on a ridge on red Hills. As recent as May of this year while heading up to Red Hills, I was telling them about Ansel designing that house on the ridge.
To the family my deepest condolences. I will always remember his impact in my formative years. Although we did not speak often when we did it was always a moment of reflection and I will always cherish the memories living at Knightsdale Drive and knowing this awesome gentle giant.
May Ansel continue to Rest In Peace.
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me but to all who have longed for his appearing" (2 Timothy 4 7-8)
I live a few doors down from Sam and Sonia. Thanks to Sonia for inviting me and my baby grandson years ago to enjoy the koi fish in their backyard. I was very impressed with the meticulous design and care they had put in their backyard. It was not the commercial product of a landscape designer. I could see the harmony, artistic talent and love of nature in Sam's heart expressed in every part of the garden. And their luminous Christmas decoration on the front lawn have always lit up our street.
Every time I took a walk in our neighbourhood, I looked forward to greeting and chatting with Sam in the warm weather. I have been inspired by his gentle, peaceful and focused presence on his wheelchair enjoying his reading.
Sam and Sonia have been an outstanding living witness to a strong faith grounded in trust and surrender to God's plan for our lives.
Sonia : May our faith in Sam enjoying the eternal glory in God's presence bring consolation and renewal to you and your family.
Teresa Li
I met Sam (Ansel) more than 60 years ago.
At that time, I along with several other young men in the office, were in the early stage of our careers as draftsmen.
The 'co-workers' became lifelong friends. We found Sam to be warm, cheerful, kind and a 'damn good draftsman'
Then Canada 'beckoned' and one by one, we left Jamaica in search of other opportunities, beginning in 1967 or thereabouts.
In Canada we were again working in the same office. And the group grew, as others were welcomed into the group of 'draftsmen from Jamaica'.
It's been a long time, and we have lost some of the husbands and wives, but today we mourn the loss of Sam.
I will remember his kindness, his cheerful disposition even as he was getting sick, he never complained.
Sam never expressed self pity.
I will miss you Sam!
Sonia, I'll be praying for you and your family.
Sonia and family; words may fall short, my thoughts and prayers are with you as the family navigate your loss. I enjoyed the many conversations held in the shade of the garage. May you find strength and comfort in the love surrounding you from near and far. May God give you peace. Love BB
Q: What was one of the qualities of Mr. Samuel that you loved most?
A: I loved my Uncle’s soft voice. He was always calm and just his tone made you feel comfortable. I am so happy I got to see him earlier. We had a great time catching up with him and Aunt Sonia. You will be missed. But I look forward to the resurrection hope we all have.
Love always Nigel
Dear Grandpa,
Thank you for the unconditional love, the steady guidance, and the unwavering support you gave me throughout your life. Your wisdom shaped me in more ways than I can express, and your words will forever echo in my heart and memory.
You were more than a grandfather—you were a teacher, a protector, and a true example of strength and kindness. I will carry your lessons with me always, and I will strive to make you proud in all that I do.
May your soul rest in perfect peace. You will always be missed, but never forgotten.
With all my love,
Junior Neba
