October 16, 1948•August 20, 2026
Spencer Giles Morgan passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026, surrounded by his family—the people he loved most. He leaves behind a lifetime of service, countless stories, an enduring legacy of love, and a family who will miss his humor, his kindness, and his unmistakable presence. He loved his family, his friends, and simply being around others. He was genuinely funny, quick with a story, and always capable of making an ordinary moment more memorable. He was a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, counselor, teacher, and servant. He was, above all, a good man who loved his family and loved being with people.
Spence was born on October 16, 1948, in Salt Lake City, Utah, the middle child of seven—and the only boy among six sisters. Growing up surrounded by sisters may have helped sharpen the quick wit and sense of humor that became such a beloved part of who he was. Spence had a gift for making people laugh, telling a good story, and bringing a little mischief wherever he went.
Spence graduated from East High School and attended the University of Utah, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology in 1974 and a Master of Social Work in 1981. He went on to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and dedicated his career to helping families and children. He spent 31 years with the Division of Child and Family Services for the State of Utah, 25 years with LDS Social Services as a marriage and family counselor, and 15 years in private practice. Through his work, he touched countless lives with his compassion, wisdom, and genuine desire to help others.
On July 22, 1971, Spence married and was sealed for eternity to his sweetheart, Donna Louise McLay in the Logan Temple. Together they built a wonderful family: five sons—the basketball team—five daughters-in-law—the cheerleaders—15 grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter—the enthusiastic audience. Family was at the center of Spence’s life, and he treasured every opportunity to be surrounded by the people he loved. Over the course of their 55 years together, Spence and Donna made their home in Salt Lake City, Price, Taylorsville, West Jordan, and South Jordan, creating memories and friendships wherever they lived.
Spence served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Texas South Mission from 1968 to 1970 and an inner city mission with his favorite companion, his wife. His love for the Church and his desire to serve others remained an important part of his life. Throughout the years, he served in many capacities, including as a Bishop, Bishop’s counselor, executive clerk, stake high councilor, teacher in the Elders Quorum, Primary, and Sunday School, Young Men’s president, and missionary. He willingly gave his time and talents wherever they were needed and found great joy in serving others.
Spence was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne Spencer Morgan and Georgeva Giles Morgan; his sisters, Carol Beal, Judy (George) Latham, Marlene (Larry) Kesler, Shauni Morgan, and his brother-in-law, M. Reed (Cheryl) Sprague.
Spence is survived by his wife, Donna Morgan; his five sons - Spencer (Kimberly), David (Babes), Richard (Lori), Edward (Stephanie), and Timothy (Carlye); his sisters - Laurie (Phil) Sainsbury and Cheryl (Reed) Sprague; 15 grandchildren - Cody, Brookelle, Marissa, Mason, Mahaleah, Alexis, Kaylee, Johnny, Mckenzie, Benjamin, Tyler, Jaxen, Madelinn, Boston, and Emma; one great-granddaughter - Lilie; and his beloved dog - Annie.
We’d like to thank the staff at The Pepperwood Care Center, Cascade Springs Hospice and Canyon Hospice for caring for Spencer in his final eight months of life.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1540 West 10400 South, South Jordan, Utah. A viewing will be held beginning at 9:30 AM prior to services. Interment: South Jordan Cemetery.