06/01/2026
When I first heard that Spencer leak had passed, I assumed it was his father and I remember thinking how will Jr process this loss. Minutes later I begin hearing it was Jr. How possibly can his father, mother, brothers, children and the profession process such a profound loss? Well we must talk about our loss (TalkLoss).
Spencer was an incredible person. As large as he was professionally, you had his phone number. Always responding to texts, asking questions, and letting you know how he felt about a situation.
My thoughts and prayers are with his mother and father. Henrietta Leak has always been fiercely protective of her family. I cannot imagine the heart break that this beautiful woman is experiencing. Spencer Sr, a kind and gentle spirit, I am sure is overwhelmed by the loss of his namesake.
His son III, who Jr had celebrated daily on his FB page has such a legacy to follow but also must process the loss of a man that showed his love and respect for his son so publicly and awesomely over this past month; graduation and joining the family business as the newest employee.
And then there is Emma, his daughter. Also, publicly sharing his proud dad moments. Her graduation from college and how proud he was of her. I will not forget the billboard celebrating her achievements gracing the expressways.
As funeral directors we are professionals who show others how to grieve. Honestly, I do not believe we do it very well for ourselves. I have been deeply disturbed by Spencer's passing. What has touched me about him is that he was a good and decent person. He cared about people and tried to give his best. And if he felt he fell short of the mark, he would personally let you know; thereby exceeding it all expectations.
In one of my last conversations, I had done a video (did not call any names) but expressed my disappointment with the MEO meeting, in which, we were on the opposite sides of addressing an issue. Spencer walked up to me and said,
"done any new videos? I said, no. He smiled and said, good. Put his hand on my shoulder, smiled and walked away. He had made his point, I had made mine and we moved on. Spencer earned my respect because he was that Man. A good, kind professional that simply wanted the best for all he encountered and the families he served.
May God grant his biological family, and his extended family clarity and peace that surpasses all earthly understanding and may Spencer Leak, Jr be granted eternal peace as his ancestors receive his kind spirit. Peace be with you. ❤️
Gregory Derek Lennon, FD
