Obituary: Susan Elizabeth Spence

Susan Elizabeth Spence, known to friends and family as Beth, passed away Saturday, March 30, 2024, from a long illness.

A Celebration of Life will be conducted at a later date.

Beth was raised and attended school in Kinston. After matriculating from Grainger High School in 1967, she attended the University of North Carolina in Greensboro graduating in 1971 with a Bachelor’s Degree in English and Literature.

She began teaching English in Newport News, VA. She taught school for about two years before pursuing other professional goals and interests. Beth eventually became a Certified Financial Planner and enjoyed a long and successful career with MetLife in Washington, DC.

Beth lived and worked in Washington DC for approximately forty-five years. She developed and enjoyed many personal and professional relationships. Beth was fortunate enough to pursue her interest in the arts through her association with the National Symphony Orchestra at Kennedy Center. She was also an avid reader and enjoyed her reading group. Beth had a love for animals, and she would often spend some of her time volunteering with the Humane Rescue Alliance, in Washington DC.

She is survived by her brother, Robert S. Spence; sister-in-law, Sandra M. Spence; niece, Corrinne Elizabeth Dorey and husband, James; great-niece, Vivian Elizabeth Dorey of Raleigh. Beth is also survived by a number of girlfriends that are from Kinston, and they have remained friends throughout their lives. These ladies of the class of 67 were special and important to her and her family. Beth will be missed by her family and her many friends.

Beth is preceded in death by her parents, Samuel L. Spence and Mary Elizabeth Musselwhite Spence.

Memorial contributions may be made to Humane Rescue Alliance, 71 Oglethorpe St NW, Washington, DC 20011.

Arrangements made by Edwards Funeral Home & Cremations. Online condolences may be expressed at www.edwardsfhc.com.