Alma Spicer

Alma Kirstein Spicer, 99, of Brevard, passed away on Sunday, June 24, 2018. A native of Asheville, NC, she was the daughter of the late Ewald Carl and Levia McBrayer Kirstein. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, George Thurston Spicer, and her brother Alvin Ewald Kirstein, who was killed during World War II.

Blessed with 99 years of life, Alma Spicer was a symbol of strength and determination. She died 30 years after her husband Thurston, almost to the day. Mrs. Spicer was born and raised in Western North Carolina and wanted to stay here all her life, even if it meant being far from her family. She will be remembered by her sweet southern cadence, her sharp wit and humor, and most of all her dedication and support of her family.

She majored in music at Women's College in Greensboro and became a public school music teacher, teaching a variety of instruments, directing a band, and leading a chorus. She later taught piano in her home, sang in the Methodist church choir, and was a member of the Brevard Music Lover's Club. She played piano, classical guitar and standup bass. For many summers, she and her family attended performances at the Brevard Music Center.

She was a member of Brevard First United Methodist church and served as part-time treasurer. She also served as treasurer of the Beulah May Zachary organ fund. She had varied interests and was active in a number of community groups, including the League of Women Voters, the Friends of the Library, American Association of University Women, and the regional Girl Scout Council.

She was an accomplished seamstress and cook, preparing many wonderful dinners for her family and friends. She enjoyed learning new skills and delved into weaving, basketry, knitting, crocheting, and decoupage.

Her survivors include her son, Stephen Alvin Spicer and daughter-in-law, Pamela of Chicago, IL, her daughter Elaine Spicer Friebele and son-in-law, Joe of Cheverly, MD; grandchildren William Edward Friebele (Armi) of Riverdale, MD, David Stephen Friebele (Letizia) of Cheverly, MD, Mark Thurston Spicer (Erika) of Columbia, SC, and Matthew Stephen Spicer of Chicago, IL; great-grandchildren Goldis and Bradley Friebele of Riverdale, MD.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, August 18, 2018 at Brevard First United Methodist Church with Rev. Mike Holder Officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Conserving Carolina at conservingcarolina.org or Brevard First United Methodist Church at 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712.