Obituaries

Name:

" Vincent Spooner "

D.O.B:

11/21/1924

D.O.D

03/11/2021

Country From:

USA

State / Parish:

Place of Death

Long Island

Service Date

03/19/2021

9:00am

Details:

Viewing 9:00am-10:00 at David Williams Funeral Home
(108-20 Sutphin BLVD. Jamaica, NY 11435.

Service 10am.

Special Info

Let the Work I’ve Done Speak For Me” Vincent Harcourt Spooner The Journey Begins Vincent Harcourt Spooner was born on November 21, 1924 in Manhattan, NY. God called his good and faithful servant home to glory on March 11, 2021. Vincent was the second eldest of five children born to the late Hillary and Clarice Spooner, who originated from the island of Barbados. Vincent attended New York Public Schools and Boys High School, where he ran track. He was an advocate for education and pushed his children to pursue knowledge while understanding that knowledge was power. While encouraging them to attend and excel in college, he decided to obtain a Bachelor’s of Science degree from St. Francis College in NY shortly after his daughter’s college graduation. Vincent was known by many as Uncle Vinnie, The Judge, Pop-Pop and Elder Spooner. He was considered to be an Alpha Male with a loving, caring and compassionate heart for others. His Doll Vivian often said, “He is gentle but stern and his bark was worse than his bite”. We Salute You In 1943, Vincent was drafted into the U.S Army during World War II and was stationed in Brussels Belgium. He later excelled to the rank of Sergeant in the 595th Quarter Master Division for Weapons Maintenance. During his tour of duty, he received several awards of honor including the New York State Medal for Merit from the Division of Military and Navy Affairs. Vincent became a life member of (DAV) Disabled American Veterans and The American Legend after being honorably discharged. He received two Bronze Stars which is the 4th highest ranking award a service member can receive for heroic deeds performed in the armed forces. Vincent was also presented the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal issued by President Roosevelt and in 2002, Certificate of Bravery from State Senator Malcom Smith. He later earned recognition of service for 46 years during the Cold War; City Council Citation from the NYC Elected Council and Congressional Achievement Award from Councilman Gregory Meeks. The Family The Greatest love story ever told was created when Vincent met the love of his life, Vivian Smart, who was affectionately known as his Doll. The two of them enjoyed endless dates, traveling on romantic getaways, entertaining family/friend gatherings and much more. On 4/12/1947, which was Vivian’s birthday, their two hearts were joined together as one and the duo was referred to as “The Spooners”. To this union two precious gifts were born: Valerie and Vincent (Butch). They eventually migrated from Brooklyn to St. Albans with their family and truly became the example of living life inseparably. Labor to Reward Vincent was employed as a machine operator with the Federal Manufacturing & Engineering Corp. In 1950, he began his career with the Federal Civil Service Systems as a Traffic Court Clerk, Court Officer and Associate Court Clerk. During this era top positions within government were rare and selective. Vincent was determined to get his spot at the top, as a result he went to college to obtain a degree to gain equal rights, distinction and a salary the same as others. Upon graduation, he was promoted and became the first black Assistant to the Executive of Operations for the Supreme Court of the State of New York. After 33 long years, Vincent decided to enter the wonderful world of retirement and was awarded the New York State Conspicuous Service Cross. He was active within the community and worked the election poles Good Times Uncle Vinnie was a worldwide traveler who loved the relaxation of the Caribbean, especially in his hometown of Barbados. He looked forward to the semi-annual family & friend’s cruises. Uncle Vinnie joined several bowling leagues with Vivian, Franklin, Edna and Mary. He proudly displayed numerous trophies and awards from the AMF Van Wick Lanes VIP Seniors; Trinity Bowling Club and AMF Belle Rose Super Senior Club. In his later years both he a Vivian joined the Senior Center where they enjoyed activities and spending time with new friends. He loved outdoor grilling and Riverton Street was known as the entertainment house for laughter, shooting pool and card games. He adored his dogs Sinbad, Lucky and Pimp. He associated with prestigious people and political figures such as Al Sharpton, Jessie Jackson; musicians Brooke Benton, Sammy Davis Jr and Bill Curtis. A Time To Worship Elder Spooner was a faithful member of The Presbyterian Church of St. Albans for over 50 years until his passing. He held various positions in the church, which included singing with the All City Choir, Men of Distinction, The Chancellor Choir and also performed with the Theater of the Living Word. Elder Spooner loved reading sheet music and singing praises to his Lord. His harmonious voice was often requested to usher in the presence of God and was cheered on to take the mic which truly blessed those who were present. He and Vivian coordinated many bus rides and events as fundraisers for the church. He also coached their basketball team. The Spooners were honored and crowned King & Queen during the churches Fine China event. Fond Farewell Vincent is predeceased by his parents Hillary and Clarice Spooner; brothers Horace, Franklin and Adian; son in law, James (Pete) Anderson Left to treasure his precious memories is his beloved “Doll" Vivian Spooner; one daughter, Valerie Anderson; one son, Vincent Spooner; one special daughter, Linda Bush; one daughter-in-law, Denise Spooner; one brother, Clairmont Spooner; one sister in law, Helen Spooner; four grandchildren, Tiya Roberson, Tiffany Spooner-Banks, Tyren (Nicole) Roberson, Sean Spooner; nine great grandchildren, Cameron, Ahkil, Kaisean, Sydney, Amaris, Elijah, Alexander, Gianna, Prince; special nieces, Felicia, Keysha, Kayla, Jewel; dear lifetime neighbor/friend, Alice (Sug) Hill; care givers, Charmaine Jon Baptiste and Ferida Ali and host of other relatives and friends. We are grateful for the vibrate life, legacy, leadership and foundation that Vincent left here on this earth. His footprint will always be treasured by all those he touched and inspired thru his good deeds, inspiration, song and service.

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