THOMASVILLE — Spencer McMaster DePaola of Thomasville passed away on Thursday, Aug. 10 from a car accident. He was 23, born on April 18, 1994, in Albany, Ga. On Aug. 23, 2016, he completed his GED and enrolled at Thomas University Spring Semester 2017. Spencer was majoring in interdisciplinary studies with a minor in sports studies. Ultimately, he wanted to continue his education in exercise physiology in graduate school. He loved sharing his knowledge about nutrition and discussing the advantages and disadvantages of different supplements and foods. He was a Certified Personal Trainer and certified for the Low Ropes Course at the YMCA.

Spencer was a passionate athlete. During high school, he played both football and basketball, but basketball became one of his greatest loves. He continued to play after high school at the Thomasville YMCA daily and in many church leagues. His passion led him to train for America Ninja Warrior. He spent countless hours at the gym and stadium sharpening the skills needed for this competition. Last December he submitted his first application for this show and was selected to be one of three alternates at Daytona Beach. He had already begun preparing for this season at the time of his accident.

Spencer also worked at J.C. Penney until the store’s closing at the end of July. There he became known as a “person magnet,” a description that truly captures his easygoing personality. His love of people allowed him to attract diverse groups of people simultaneously. He also had a dry wit and was an avid practical joker bringing laughter to all who knew him.

The most important thing in Spencer’s life was his relationship with Christ. His worn FCA Bible was always close at hand marked extensively with encouragement. His Bible knowledge was eagerly shared in both word and deed drawing others not only to him but to his Lord, Jesus Christ. His favorite verse was Rev. 21:4, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death.”
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Elio DePaola, Clarice DePaola, William Pickford, and Marlena Joyce Pickford. He is survived by his mother, Laura DePaola of Americus, Ga.; his father and stepmother, Steve and Robin DePaola, of Thomasville; brothers Jordan DePaola of Americus and Parker DePaola, and adopted sister and brother, Alexandra Lopez and Matthew Greek. Stepsiblings include Robb, Hannah, and Megan Ouzts of Thomasville, Ga. Special family members include Uncle Scott Pickford of California, Aunt Lisa Hensley of Texas, Aunt and Uncle Linda and Richard McMaster, Aunts Arline and Gina DePaola of California and many cousins.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 19, 2017, at Calvary Episcopal Church in Americus, Ga.