Gail Frances Spence

Gail F. (Motzkus) Spence, 80, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on September 20, 2024. Gail was born on November 18, 1943, in Maryville, Missouri. Her parents were Fredrick and Margie (Goss) Motzkus and Gail was the first of 6 daughters. They were privileged to be reared on the family farm near Stanberry, Missouri.

Gail’s parents preceded her in death as did 3 of her sisters, Billie J. Motzkus, Elayna P. Motzkus, and Alice M. Kidd. A nephew, Mark Kidd, and a niece, Andrea M. Peterson, also preceded Gail in death as did her beloved husband, Norman H. Spence (in 2016).

In the summer of 1952, Gail had contracted poliomyelitis and she had to struggle more than some to lead a normal life. Her favorite Bible verse was a guide: “…With God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26.

She attended Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville. When she was working for the summer near Manitou Springs, Colorado, she met Norman H. Spence. They were married on September 15, 1963.

The couple moved back to Missouri in 1966 and had 2 sons, William, and Eric. They moved to Kansas City, Missouri in 1975 where Gail worked for the KCMO school district for 26.5 years. Gail was previously a member of Bales Baptist Church and taught the Special Friends Class for 33 years and sometimes played piano for church.

Survivors include her 2 sons, William and Eric, and 2 sisters, Maida Peterson (Marc) Ankeny, Iowa, and Jeannie Cochell (Bill) Kimberling City, MO, and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at Carson-Speaks Chapel (1501 W Lexington Ave, Independence, MO) on Friday, September 27, 2024 from 5-7 pm. A service will be held at the same place on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 10 am followed by a graveside at Mt. Washington Cemetery.