Joan Elizabeth Council Spencer

Author:
April 25, 2024

In accordance with the will of our Heavenly Father, Joan Elizabeth Council Spencer, daughter of the late Walter (Bill) Council and the late Lovie Riggsbee Council, having made peace with God, entered into eternal rest early last Tuesday morning, April 9, 2024, at the age of 71 years at the Hock Family Pavilion, Durham, North Carolina. Her loving family and friends surrounded her.

Joan, born on February 6, 1953, was a beacon of academic excellence. As the only girl in her family, she was one of the first babies to be born at North Carolina Memorial Hospital (now UNC). After schools were desegregated, she attended and graduated from North Central University, where she earned a BA degree in Accounting, a testament to her dedication and hard work.

Joan married Barry Spencer on a beautiful, warm September day at Mount Zion Baptist Church, where she grew up with her family and friends.

During her lifetime of employment, Joan held her first accounting position with WCHL Radio Station in Chapel Hill. She worked for a short period as an accountant at African News. She was also employed in the Accounting Department at North Carolina Central University. As she strived to achieve, she advanced to Accountant I and later to Accountant II. She was promoted to Director of Financial Reporting in the Comptroller’s Office. She was the founder and owner of Spencer Accounting. She was an active State Employee Association of North Carolina (SEANC) District 27 member.

Joan’s commitment to her faith was unwavering. She joined Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church at a young age during the leadership of Rev. J. R. Burt and remained a dedicated member until her passing. Her service to the church was extensive, serving in various capacities over the years. She was a member of the Ushers Ministry, chaired the Deaconess Ministry, and served as the church treasurer for approximately 37 years, a testament to her commitment and service to her church community.

Joan was preceded in death by her father, Walter (Bill) , her mother, Lovie, and brother Ray. She leaves to honor and cherish her memory three loving brothers: Wallace Council (Millie), James Council (Loretta), and Steve Council (Linda). She is also survived by several nieces, nephews, three Goddaughters, and many family members and friends.

Joan has left a huge void in our lives, but we are assured that she rests in our Heavenly Father’s arms.

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