Obituary of Vincent Joseph Spence

Vincent Joseph Spence, age 76, passed away peacefully following a battle with cancer on October 29, 2022, at Calvary Hospital in Brooklyn.

Vincent was born in Brooklyn, NY on October 28, 1946, to the late John Robert Spence and Mildred Cecilia Willoughby. Vincent was one of nine siblings: Geraldine (Poulson, D), Joan (O’Connell), Barbara (Cisar, D) Eileen (D’Addio, D), Peggy (Capaldo), Jack, Joseph (D) and Steven (D) and beloved Uncle to over 25 nieces and nephews. He is survived by his children:  Tara Spence (Keith Ballenger), Vincent Spence (Lynn Spence), Christopher Riccio (Kim Riccio), Michael Spence (Andrea Spence); his grandchildren: Kaitlyn Spence, Lauren Spence, Carmela Riccio, Alyssa Riccio, Christopher Riccio, Logan Spence and his granddog Georgia the Mastiff.

He was a Vietnam Veteran and a decorated member of the United States Navy where he served honorably for over 5 years. He went on to work on Wall Street and then to tend bar in many of Brooklyn’s favorite establishments including Penny Lane, The Log Cabin and most recently, Jack Bailey’s.

Vinnie “The Truth” Du-Wop lived life his way. He made friends easily, and he teased them relentlessly. He could recite all 50 states, capitals, mottos, and flowers, was quick with a riddle and was the King of the one-liners. He was an avid Sudoku player and did the crossword and jumble everyday while watching ESPN Zone and checking NYRA. Vinnie was the quintessential life of the party and laughter and good times came with him wherever he went. He recently threw the party of his life for family and friends so he could be “seen” not “viewed” and called it Vinnie Du-Wop’s last call. His last wish was granted when his grandson Logan was born on his birthday and Vinnie left this world with no regrets. He was loved and will be missed by many.

A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, November 12 th at 10:30 AM at St Thomas Aquinas, 1550 Hendrickson St., Brooklyn, NY with a repast to follow at Jack Bailey’s, 2128 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY.

Committal service To Be Determined