In memory of

Charles Nolan Spence

January 8, 1942 -  February 2, 2026

It is with profound sadness and grief that we announce that Charles Nolan Spence (Charlie), a beloved husband, father, grandfather and father-in-law, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Berbice, Guyana, Charles attended Queen's College, where he was recognized as an elite athlete for track and field and cricket. He commenced his career with Cable and Wireless before immigrating to Canada. He was employed with the Toronto Police Service for many years, then with Air Canada. He retired from Canada News Wire after more than 25 years of service. He was known for his integrity, strong work ethic, and warm, engaging nature.

Charles loved cooking, music, electronics, and spending time with family. He is survived by his loving wife Rita, his daughter Donna, his son-in-law Kris, and his grandchildren Nicholas (Alexandra) and Lucas. He leaves behind his brother Reginald Orrin Spence (Velma), his sisters Sheila Eytle (the late Joe), Dawn Diaz (Omar) and nephews and nieces in the United Kingdom and the United States. Charles will be sadly missed by his sister-in-law Grace Husbands, his nephew Andre Spence, his nieces Louise Carew, Nadia Smid (John), Devika Bradshaw (Jeff), Sabrina Ramdeholl (Jim Worling), Sunita Givens (John), and their families.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to all of the nurses, PSW's and staff who provided exceptional care and kindness to Charles during his lengthy stay at Lakeridge Bowmanville Hospital.

He will be welcomed into heaven by the angels, his parents Clifford and Eileen, and siblings Ronald and Desiree.

Charles will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Guestbook 

(5 of 52)


Shakima Brooks (Niece)

Entered February 3, 2026 from Florida

I’ve always known Uncle Charles to be full of fun, life, and laughter. It was a joy seeing him tell mom to fight and to be strong. He had so much joy, despite the fact that, he was fighting his own battles. Mom and Uncle Charles was very close and I’m sure that she’s welcoming him in heaven. My prayers go to Aunt Rita and cousin Donna.

Hayden Chadee (Family Friend)

Entered February 3, 2026 from Toronto

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”— Matthew 5:4

We are thinking of you in this time of loss.
Blessings,
J & H

Shahab 

Entered February 3, 2026 from Guyana

May God grant your soul eternal peace and may Jesus Christ light shine on to your face. you will be missed Sleep on Uncle Charles

John Nunes de Souza (Cable and Wireless co-worker in Guyana)

Entered February 3, 2026 from Pickering

I met Charlie at Cable and Wireless, where we became acquainted. Although we worked out of different locations we always greeted each other and exchanged pleasantries when we crossed paths. Later, in Canada, we continued that same relationship. Charlie was always pleasant company with an easy-going manner.
On behalf of my wife Sherry and I, we extend our sympathy to his family and Grace.

May he rest in peace and may perpetual light shine upon him.

Gerry Steven (Family Friend)

Entered February 4, 2026 from Whitby

I’m so glad I got to know Charles. I always looked forward to our conversations at your get-togethers. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Life Stories 

(1 of 1)


Reginald Orrin Spence (Brother)

Entered February 4, 2026 from Georgetown, Texas

Eulogy for My Dear Brother Charles

Today, I stand here with a heavy heart, but also with deep gratitude—because I was blessed to have a brother like you.

When I think back on our childhood, I don’t just remember moments… I remember a whole world. A world where the days felt endless, laughter came easily, and joy was as natural as breathing. I remember us playing cricket games and soccer, riding our bicycles like we owned the streets, swimming, chasing girls, and getting into countless other boyhood adventures. We were always running, always moving, always having fun.

And in the middle of all that, there was home. There was Mom’s big pot meals—those meals that fed more than our bodies. They fed our family. They held us together. They were part of the love that shaped us.

As life went on, and I left home, I realized how much I missed those carefree boyhood days. But more than anything… I missed my brother.

I want to say something honest today. I didn’t always call you the way I should have. I didn’t always reach out the way I wish I had. But I want everyone here to know this: you have always been in my prayers. Always. Not just sometimes. Not when it was convenient. But always.

And now, as you have made your transition to the heavenly planes, I will miss you more than you will ever know. There is a space in my heart that only a brother can fill—and yours will never be replaced.

But even in grief, I hold onto faith. I believe you are not lost. You are not gone. You have simply moved forward—into a new chapter, into a higher place, into God’s care.

On your journey, my dear brother, may you feel God’s love surrounding you. May you know you left behind an amazing family who loves you, honors you, and blesses you as you continue your heavenly journey forward.

Thank you for being my brother. Thank you for the laughter. Thank you for the memories. Thank you for being part of my life story.

God bless you, my dear brother.
And until we meet again… rest in peace. Your brother Orrin

Photos 

(3 of 3)