Gordon David Spence, a beloved father, husband, naval officer, and dedicated civil engineer, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2024. Born on May 8, 1943 on a stormy afternoon at 3:30 PM in Wesson Memorial Hospital, Springfield, MA, Gordon’s life was marked by his unwavering commitment to family, country, and community.

Gordon’s early education began at Elias Brookings Elementary School, followed by Classical Junior High School in Springfield, MA, and Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School in South Yarmouth, MA. He graduated in 1961. He continued his education at the University of Louisville on an NROTC scholarship, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering in 1966. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as an Ensign in the Civil Engineer Corps of the US Navy.

In his personal life, Gordon was blessed with two marriages. He married Marilyn Mattingly on June 11, 1966, in Louisville, KY, and later married Melinda Bradley Morris on January 3, 1981, in Virginia Beach, VA. He was a proud father to four sons: Scott Spence, who resides in Geneva, Switzerland, with his husband Peter Mora Roma; Adam Spence, who lives with his wife Susan and their three sons, Andrew, Michael and Gordon, in Baltimore County; Aaron Spence, who shares a loving family with his wife Krista, their three sons, Christopher, Ian and Aaron, and three daughters, Mattingly, Isabella and Kristianna, in Loudoun County; and Jonathan Morris, who lives in Virginia Beach with his wife Torry and their two children, Chase and Leighton.

Gordon was predeceased by his parents, Charlotte Besemer Spence and Gordon David Spence. He is survived by his sisters, Janet Shabman and Patricia Leighton, who will cherish his memory.

Gordon’s naval career was distinguished and honorable. His tours of duty included service in Vietnam with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 74 and Operation Deep Freeze in Christchurch, NZ. He also held significant roles at Davisville, RI, Norfolk, VA, and Virginia Beach, VA. His naval career concluded with his retirement as a Commander in the Civil Engineer Corps, USNR, in September 1989.

Following his retirement from active service, Gordon continued to serve the military community through his work at Old Dominion University, Naval Station Norfolk, and HBA Architects and Interior Design. His efforts at the Naval Station Norfolk were particularly impactful, where he worked tirelessly to improve the facilities and quality of life for sailors stationed there.

Gordon was an active member of the Good Samaritan Episcopal Church, contributing his time and skills to community service and maintenance projects. He was an active member of several clubs, including the Hampton Roads Postcard Club, the Cape Henry Model A Ford Club, and the Tidewater Appalachian Trail Club. He found joy in restoring and working on his Model A Fords with his dear friend Jack Pavlat, establishing a reputation in “Jack’s Garage,” and in spending time with his great friend George Squires on his beloved Chubb Lake.

Gordon’s love for the Navy and his role in the SEABEES were evident through his many fond memories and stories, particularly his experiences in Antarctica with Operation Deep Freeze. He was a proud member of the Old Antarctic Explorers, having flown to Antarctica on a C-121 Constellation and experiencing the thrill of a takeoff from the ice in a ski-equipped C-130 Hercules.

Gordon’s legacy is one of service, dedication, and love. He touched the lives of many through his professional achievements, community involvement, and unwavering support for his family and friends. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 29, 2024 at Good Samaritan Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, donations in remembrance of Gordon can be made to Good Samaritan Episcopal Church, 848 Baker Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23462.