Florence Spencer Willett

Florence Spencer Willett, age 98, passed away on December 22, 2024, in Gatesville. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 30th at Pidcoke Cemetery with Pastor Peter Harris officiating. 

Florence Spencer Willett was born September 14, 1926, in Buckingham County, Virginia, daughter of the late James Gray Spencer, Sr. and Mary Pratt Spencer. During and after World War II Florence worked in the Tax Assessor’s office in Washington, D.C. In 1948 she moved to Austin, Texas where she was employed with the Texas Highway Department in the Motor Vehicle Division. 

On May 24, 1952, Florence married Noyes W. (Nockey) Willett, III. They made their home in Austin. Florence resigned from her job with the Motor Vehicle Division in 1955, shortly before the birth of their first child. She rejoined the labor force in 1966 with the Catholic Diocese of Austin. She was secretary to the Bishop of Austin until her retirement in 1986. 

In 1968 the Willetts purchased ranch property in Coryell County, used primarily as a weekend retreat until their retirement. After remodeling the ranch house, they sold their home in Austin and settled in the country. For many years they were active members of Pidcoke Methodist Church. Florence served on the Board of Trustees, on several committees, and was treasurer of the Sunday School. She enjoyed quilting and had a separate building on the ranch where she and friends gathered to quilt and visit.

In addition to her parents, Florence was preceded in death by her husband in October 2011; a son, Noyes W. Willett IV in May 2008; two sisters, Mary Steger and Meredith Staton; and brothers, Samuel, James, Whitcomb, and Franklin Spencer.

Florence is survived by her son, James Willett of Austin; granddaughter, Savannah Pearl Willett of Austin; and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to Scott & White Cancer Research, Office of Development, 2401 S. 31st Street Temple, Texas 76504. 

The local florist that currently services Scott's Funeral Home is not available at this time. Flower arrangements for this service can be ordered from The Daisy in Copperas Cove by calling (800) 758-3727 or (254) 547-6321.