Vernell Clara Spencer, nee Heins, age 92, born September 25, 1930 in St. Louis, Mo., passed away peacefully Thursday morning, September 7, 2023 at her home at Keystone Place at Richland Creek, O'Fallon, Ill.

Vernell was a gal from south St. Louis, and while attending a picnic, met a country boy from Alabama, who was stationed at Scott AFB; her life would never be the same. She married James R. Spencer April 7, 1951. Together they traveled the world for 70 years, and raised two children with whom they shared the adventure. Vernell was a proud Air Force wife and worked at Scott AFB. Her life was brightened by four adoring grandsons, and the many deep friendships she formed over the years with others from all walks of life. Vernell made everyone feel special. She was a 60+-year member of the United Church of Christ and was active at O'Fallon UCC for many of her past 54 years. She was a talented artist and crafter and enjoyed oil painting.

Vernell is survived by her children Gary (Kendrea) Spencer of Amelia Island, Fla., Sherry (Bruce) Enskat of Citrus Springs, Fla., grandsons Timothy Enskat, Nicholas (Jennifer) Spencer, Aaron (Emily) Enskat, and Cody Spencer; two great grandchildren Joshua Spencer and Clara Enskat; and her sister-in-law Kris Heins of St. Louis.

She was preceded in death by her husband James on August 19, 2022, her parents Clara, nee Worrell, and Louis Heins, Sr., and her brother Louis Heins, Jr.

Funeral Services will be held privately at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O'Fallon, and Vernell will be laid to rest with her husband at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.