The chapel at the Society of St. Vincent de Paul was dedicated in honor of Nancy B. Spencer for her years of dedication and service.
“For 20 years, Nancy has inspired and motivated her fellow Society members, volunteers and staff with her dedication and wisdom,” said Steve Jenkins, president of the board.
“She exemplifies the society’s basic mission of service to the poor.”
Spencer was honored shortly before her death Sunday of cancer.
Spencer joined St. Vincent de Paul in 1985 through St. Mary’s Church in Chandler. She soon became president and served in that capacity from 1986 to 1992.
She served as district president from 1992 to 1996 and was the first woman elected president of the Phoenix Diocesan Council in 1996, a position she held until 2002.
And if that did not keep her busy enough, Spencer also served for 10 years on the Adopt-a-Family Christmas Committee, which matches sponsors with needy families to ensure each family member receives a Christmas gift.
She also worked with the Youth Clothes Closet, providing new clothes for children at the start of each school year.
“The impact of the tremendous amount of work she has done on behalf of the poor will be felt well into the future,” said Steve Zabilski, executive director of St. Vincent de Paul.
