Dawn Spencer, a highly regarded personality in the world of Detroit radio, died Feb. 23. She was 55.
She was born Jan. 16, 1955 in Cleveland, educated in the Shaker Heights School District in Cleveland and was a member of the 1973 graduating class. She subsequently earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Ohio State University.
In 1975, she married Roderick Spencer Sr. of Toledo. They were married for 27 years and had two children, Roderick Jr. and Brooke. While living in Toledo, she began her professional career in radio. After relocating to Detroit, she continued to pursue a successful career in media, marketing, advertising and sales.
Mrs. Spencer, a creative visionary, focused on and understood the importance of preparation, perseverance and opportunity. She had a unique flair for her work and excelled in every position she held. From 1982 to 1988, she worked in Toledo for both WVOI AM Radio and WMHE/WOHO Dickey Broadcasting as an accountant executive. She was recognized as salesperson of the year each year. In 1988, she began a six-year account executive position with WJLB Booth Broadcasting, and again she was named sales person of the year for three consecutive years. She was fondly referred to as Dawn “Superstar” Spencer. Her accomplishments in the field continued to flourish as she assumed the position of national sales manager for WJLB/WMXD Clear Channel Radio in 1995, managing 35 sales representatives in ten markets.
In 2000, she again demonstrated her ability to challenge herself and contribute to the growth of a business when appointed as senior vice president events and promotions for Globalhue of Southfield. In this position she managed national multicultural events and promotions. After four successful years with Globalhue, she joined WVMV CBS Radio of Farmington Hills, as sales and special events manager, where she continued to work until her passing.
Mrs. Spencer was the recipient of several awards, including the Community Service Award for Outstanding Leadership and Community Involvement from the Urban League of Detroit and Southeastern Michigan in 2009. She will be honored posthumously on March 27 by Women’s Informal Network (WIN) as one of the 2010 Most Influential African American Women in Metropolitan Detroit.
She had a vibrant personality and was blessed to have family and friendships that were loving, caring and genuine. She enjoyed life and loved to read, dance, golf, cook, entertain and travel. She was a proud and supportive mother.
Mrs. Spencer is survived by her children, Roderick Spencer Jr. Dr. Brooke Spencer Trotter; grandson, Leon Bonner; parents, Lon G. Brown Sr. and Lobelia D. Brown; sister, Lyn M. Austin; brother, Lon Brown Jr.; and many others.
Dawn Spencer’s funeral is March 5 at Hartford Memorial Baptist Church. Family visitation is 11 am and service begins at noon.
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