Richard M. Spence, 77, of Salem, NH passed away peacefully at home June 2nd after a two-year struggle with dementia. He was the son of the late Milton and Dorothy (Bonny) Spence.

Dick graduated from Woodbury High School, Class of 1958 and Merrimack College, Class of 1962. Following graduation, Dick enlisted in the US Air Force Reserve. He received an honorable discharge after six years of service.

During this time, he found his true calling-he became a third-grade teacher at the William T. Barron School in Salem, NH. In September 1967, he began his thirty-year teaching career at Barron. He used his computer talents in the classroom to the delight of the children. His love of both nature and photography resulted in hundreds of beautiful photographs. He also won first prize in Salem's photography contest.

During his career, he became known for his crazy neckties. On his final day of school, all the students and staff honored Dick by wearing neckties. Mr. Spence and his students were featured on the front page of the Eagle Tribune.

Dick shared more than forty years with his beloved wife, Corinne (Lafrenier) Spence. They shared a love of teaching for a combined sixty-six years. Dick and Corinne shared fifteen years of retirement together – you seldom saw one without the other.

Dick is also survived by his son, Christopher and his wife Jean (Valdinocci). Dick's life was enriched by the birth of his grandson, Evan Andrew Spence. Dick also was "honorary" grandfather to Ashlee Sarnie. This honorary position included Megan Gaffney, Michael and Jaina Lavertue.

Dick's wish was to have no calling hours or funeral. If you wish to honor Dick's memory, please consider a donation to Silverthorne, 23 Geremonty Dr., Salem, NH 03079 where he attended for several months. The family would like to thank Amedysis Hospice, especially, Lisa, Heidi, Lydia and Nina for the outstanding care they gave to Dick.

Douglas & Johnson Funeral Home, 214 Main St. Salem, NH is honored to assist the family with the arrangements. To send a message of condolence to the family, please view the obituary at www.douglasandjohnson.com