Thomas Richard Spangler

Thomas Richard Spangler was born on December 20, 1941 in Flagstaff, Arizona to J. Frank Spangler and Dorothy Gannon Spangler, both longtime residents of Flagstaff.

Tom grew up in Flagstaff attending Flagstaff Public Schools and graduating from NAU with a degree in Education. He served in the US Army and later became a teacher at East Flag Junior High and then Coconino High School.  He taught many subjects, but his passion was teaching Arizona history, also known as “Uncle Tom’s Story Hour”.

Tom had a wealth of knowledge growing up in Flagstaff and traveled extensively throughout Arizona.  His love of the mountains kept him a native Arizonan his entire life.  He was often asked to give educational lectures about Arizona and also enjoyed giving guided tours around the state. 

After retiring from teaching, Tom joined his wife Ruth as a real estate broker and enjoyed a very successful real estate career in Flagstaff.  Upon retiring, Tom and Ruth moved to Anthem, Arizona where they have lived for the past 20 years enjoying desert living, golf, and making many new friends. 

For the past few years, Tom and Ruth have spent their summers in Prescott enjoying the historical and recreational activities that this cool getaway has to offer.

Tom is survived by his wife, Ruth; daughter Tina Myers and her husband, Russ; son Tom and his wife, Karen; daughters Debbie Webb and Lori Shirk along with her husband Jim.  Tom had six grandchildren, Nate, Zoe, Tyler (and his wife Jordan), Tanner, Lindsey and MacKenzie.

Tom is also survived by his sister, Mildred (Midge) Garrett and her husband Del; niece, Judy Johnson and her husband Tim, along with their children Ashley and Drew; nephew Brian Garrett and his wife, Katherine and their children, Jacob and Luke.

Tom went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus on July 31, 2021.  Arizona has lost a native son and a true American patriot, and he will be missed by many.

Tom’s devotion and love for the Lord was shown in his daily living and he was active in The Crossroads Church for many years.  Tom’s Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, October 23rd, 2021 at 1:00 pm at the Crossroads Church in Anthem, AZ.  Tom has requested smiles, laughter, and casual attire. He loved his Hawaiian shirts and shorts.

In lieu of flowers, Tom requested any gifts be sent to The Crossroads Church Outreach Program at 42105 N. 41st Drive, Phoenix, AZ  85086.