Spencer Y. Dixon Quarles was born January 7, 1961 in El Paso, Texas. She grew up in Davenport and Waterloo, Iowa. She attended and graduated from West High School and the University of Northern Iowa in Fine Arts.

She was married to James Quarles and raised two children, Ross Y. Dixon and Maura R. Quarles Lovelace.

Spencer was the best Art teacher! She also taught her students to garden and how to cook the veggies they grew. She turned her students into professional artists by having their work displayed and sold in galleries. She was co-founder of the Rock Island Organization, 5013C, focusing on youth empowerment. She traveled the world spreading the “Good news of the Lord”.

She loved bring people to saving grace, giving to all in need. She loved her family, tasty food, parties and gatherings. She ran the race, amen... and we give God the glory.

Spencer leaves to cherish her memory, her father, Ronald S. Dixon; son, Ross Yves (Dalia) Dixon; daughter, Maura R. Quarles (Altorie M.) Lovelace; sisters, Ronda L. Dixon Richardson and Centa J. (Robert) Dixon; brothers, Brent R. (Fairchild) Dixon and Darryl E. (Carolyn) Dixon; grandchildren, Jalen Mekhi Quarles-Craig, Emery Giselle Dixon, and Zion Ace Dixon; inherited step-grandchildren, Atorra Hood and Rylan Hood; a multitude of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her mother, Zelma Lee Dixon.