Ernest S. Spence III
February 19, 1936 - August 25, 2026
Ernest S. Spence III, age 90, of Townsend, DE, passed away on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.
Born in Wilmington, DE on February 19, 1936, he was a son of the late Ernest S. and Ann (Delecki) Spence, Jr. Ernest was a graduate of William Penn High School. He then enlisted in the United States Navy where he proudly served his country. Ernest began his career with the Delaware State Police as a trooper on March 1, 1957, graduating from the 18th Recruit Class. During his career he was stationed at Troop 1, Penny Hill; Troop 2, State Road; Troop 3, Dover and Troop 9, Odessa. Ernest served in the Traffic, Criminal Divisions and was Officer in Charge of the Auto Theft Unit when he retired. Lieutenant Ernest Spence 172 retired on July 1, 1977 and was a life member of the Association of Retired Delaware State Police.
In addition to his parents, Ernest was preceded in death by his wife, Winifred “Winnie” (Manlove) Spence; sons, Benjamin H. Spence and David W. Spence; and grandson, Ernest S. Spence V. He is survived by his son, Ernest S. Spence IV; brothers, Gary Spence (Sue) and Terry Spence (Nancy); grandchildren, Haden Spence, River Spence, Jesse Spence, R.A. Spence, Heather Reinhart, and Christopher W. Spence; and care provider and dear friend, Sherry Yeager.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 am until 11 am on Monday, September 14, 2026, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 275 East Main Street, Middletown, DE, where a funeral service will begin at 11 am. Interment will follow in Old Drawyers Cemetery, 2839 DuPont Parkway, Middletown, DE.
Association of Retired Delaware State Police
Our condolences for the passing of Ernest S. Spence III on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. He was appointed a Trooper on March 1, 1957 and graduated from the 18th Recruit Class. Lieutenant Ernie Spence III #172 retired on July 1, 1977.
Ernie “Tank” was a life member of the Association of Retired Delaware State Police.
He received his final transfer and is now serving on Eternal Patrol.
Deirdre L Taylor
Letting you know Elmer and I are thinking about you and your family at this time of loss.
Tony & Judy Yarrusso
Rest in Peace Ernie….you are now with your beautiful wife Winnie.
Kevin Zeigler
Ernie volunteered for over 20 years @ Canal Little League, where he managed the Mets Senior Baseball Team and was also the Director of Equipment & Uniforms for the league. Ernie’s time & dedication for the youth in the Bear area was invaluable. You lived a Great Life, Ernie Spence! Prayers are with you and your family…may God Bless Your Soul. I’m sure you’ll be a First Ballot Inductee into Heaven’s Baseball Hall of Fame!
Spence Family
Sorry to learn of Ernie’s passing. We had good times at Kirkwood Fitness Club. Rest in Peace my friend