MC Samantha Troxel-Spalding

Miriam Carole “Samantha” Troxel-Spalding, 73, of South Bend, IN, passed away on August 30, 2025 at her home. Born on March 11, 1952, in Jackson, KY, Samantha was the daughter of the late Ervine and Leona (Wright) Spencer. Samantha, who was the oldest of eight children, grew up surrounded by her large family.

Samantha was a hairstylist. She was very adventurous and loved to travel. One of her favorite places to travel to was Jamaica. She had a passion for old cars and with four brothers who were mechanics, they always made sure to keep the classic cars running for her.

Samantha was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Spalding, whom she married on November 21, 2015. Also preceding her in death was her brother, Luther, whose wife Christine survives.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Angela Cunningham of South Bend, IN, three sisters; Doris Jean Spencer of South Bend, IN, Sandra (Keith) Schutz of La Paz, IN, and Marilyn (Stoney) Cunningham of Inwood, IN, three brothers; Phillip (Linda) Spencer of Bremen, IN, Anthony Spencer of South Bend, IN, and Douglas Spencer of South Bend, IN; two grandchildren, Zachary (Kinzi) Cunningham of New Port Richie, FL, and Ciara Cunningham of Bourbon, IN, and great grandchildren; Makenna and Oakley Cunningham, both of New Port Richie, FL along with her great niece, Cassandra Schutz, who she helped care for and loved like a daughter and many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

In keeping Samantha’s wishes, there will be no services. The family cherishes the memories they hold and invite others to remember Samantha in their own special way.