Remembering E.L. Spencer, Jr

Just over five years ago, in August 2018, it was announced that the new cancer center opening in Opelika would be named the E.L. Spencer, Jr., and Ruth Priester Spencer Cancer Center in honor of the philanthropic couple who had made a sizable donation toward the construction of the new 60,000 square foot facility. The Spencer Cancer Center opened in June 2019.

“Mr. Spencer’s impact on our organization and our community cannot be overstated,” said East Alabama Health President and CEO Laura Grill. “His leadership skills and work ethic were beyond measure. It was such an honor to not only work with him, but to know him as a person—a very kind and generous person. We’re indebted to him and his wife for so much that is great about our area, including our beautiful Spencer Cancer Center that so many patients turn to during their journeys with cancer.”

During Mr. Spencer’s tenure on the board, the hospital began both of its prestigious heart and cancer programs, opened the Outpatient Center, built the Auburn Medical Park (near the mall), and expanded its south bed tower from four floors to eight floors. In addition, the hospital was twice named to Fortune’s list of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” in America.

To view Mr. Spencer’s official obituary, click here.

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About East Alabama Health

East Alabama Health encompasses East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, EAMC-Lanier in Valley, the Spencer Cancer Center in Opelika, the Auburn Medical Pavilion and a host of other key medical clinic and practices that help provide a continuum of care to patients throughout an 11-county area. EAMC is a 314-bed regional referral hospital, while EAMC-Lanier provides inpatient services as well as a nursing home, an acute rehab unit and an ambulatory surgery center. East Alabama Health employs about 3,600 people and is the second largest employer in the region, trailing only Auburn University. For more information, visit www.eastalabamahealth.org.