F. Shelby Spence

Franklin Shelby Spence, 76, of Roanoke Rapids, passed away on Thursday, May 14, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, Franklin and Nellie Spence, sister, Jewel King and a son, Aaron Spence.

Shelby is survived by his former wife and best friend, Rita Spence; son, Stephen Spence (Selam); daughter, JoAnna Spence Lane (Richard); stepdaughter, MaRendia Garner; seven grandchildren, Lauren, Tyrenz, Aaron, Levi, Mattie, Ellie and Candance; sister, Joyce Copeland and brother, Melvin Spence.

His memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 11 at Owen Funeral Home, 303 S. Halifax Rd, Jarratt, Virginia.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home prior to the service beginning at 10 a.m.