Manuel S. "Manny" Spencer, Jr.

TAUNTON- Manuel S. “Manny” Spencer, Jr., age 66, of Taunton, passed away on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at his home in Taunton, surrounded by the love, comfort, and care of his family. He was the loving and devoted husband to Maria (Chaves) Spencer.

Born in Cape Verde, Manny moved to Taunton as a young child.  His story is one of resilience, dedication, and a deep-seated commitment to the betterment of his community and the safety of its residents.

Manny was a distinguished public servant, esteemed Clerk for the Planning Board of Taunton, Massachusetts, respected member of the Governing Board of Directors for Triumph Inc., member of the Taunton Revitalization Authority, retired Taunton Police Detective, and a dedicated community advocate.

During his commendable career with the Taunton Police Department, Manny served both as an Officer and a Detective, where he was instrumental in the development and success of the Taunton Community Policing Initiative. His investigative work and keen insight contributed significantly to enhancing public safety, solving complex cases, and fostering a safer, more connected community. His efforts in community policing significantly deepened the relationship between law enforcement and the community, promoting a shared responsibility for peace and security.

Manny's commitment to public service extended beyond his professional roles. As a member of the Governing Board of Directors for Triumph Inc., he was a staunch advocate for early childhood education and care, emphasizing the importance of providing strong foundations for the city's youngest residents. This dedication was part of his broader mission to enhance the lives of all Taunton residents.

Beyond his public service, Manny was a beloved brother, husband, father, and grandfather. His family was central to his life, and his values of love, guidance, and support were evident in every aspect of his work within the community. Manny's legacy as a family man and public servant, including his time coaching youth soccer, reflects a life dedicated to nurturing potential, whether at home or on the field.

Manny leaves behind a loving family who admired his relentless drive to make a difference, his dedication to public service, his integrity as a Police Detective, and his unwavering love for the Taunton community. Manny’s legacy is not only marked by his public service but also by the deep love and commitment he had for his family.

In addition to his wife, Manny is survived by his sons: Mark Spencer and his wife Shelby and Bryan Spencer and his wife Rachael; his granddaughter: Maya Spencer; his siblings: Luis Spencer, John Spencer, Antonio Spencer, Hildo Spencer, Luisa Barros and Maria Rosa; and also numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and fellow public servants. Manny’s role as a brother, husband, father, grandfather, and mentor was imbued with the same values of guidance, support, and love that he extended to his community. Manny’s legacy is not only marked by his public service but also by the deep love and commitment he had for his family.

Manny’s Mass of Christian Burial for the repose of his soul, will be held on Wednesday , February 21, 2024 at 10am in St. Anthony Church, 126 School St., Taunton. There will be no procession from the funeral home. Relatives and friends are asked to meet directly at St. Anthony Church and park in the lot behind the church, where funeral home staff will be present to assist .  Interment will be held in St. Joseph Cemetery, E Britannia St., Taunton.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday , February 20, 2024 from 4pm to 7pm in the Silva Funeral Home, 80 Broadway (at Saint Mary’s Square), Taunton MA

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts to Triumph, Inc.,100 Hon Gordon Owen Riverway, Taunton, Massachusetts 02780, in Manny’s memory would be deeply appreciated.

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