RIP Spencer Plavocos

Spencer “Spence” “Papou” Plavocos, 81, passed away on February 28, 2025, at Elderwood at Liverpool, with his loving family by his side. He was predeceased by his parents, Phil and Stella Plavocos and his brothers, George “Big George” Plavocos, and Alexander Plavocos of Wake Forest, NC.

Spence graduated from Syracuse Central High School where he met his high school sweetheart and future wife, Marie. Their love life continued for over 60 years and was a model for everyone who knew them. Spence’s early years started in the diner and family Greek restaurant business. Family and friends always delighted in holiday and birthday dinners with Greek specialties. He was a loving father. You would find Spence and Marie at every Liverpool High School marching band competition during his son’s and daughter’s high school years. He was tireless in supporting his children in every endeavor. Spence undertook chairmanship of raising funds needed to bring the band to a national competition in Florida.

Spence was a zealous advocate for mental health awareness during his 28 years as Vice President of NAMI Syracuse and 17 years on the Board of Directors of Onondaga Case Management.
Spence was a very caring man who was always devoted to his family and always willing to help anyone in need.

Spence is survived by his soulmate and love of his life for 60 years, Marie (Johnson) Plavocos; his children, Christopher Plavocos of Syracuse and Kimberly Conte of Rome, NY; his grandchildren, Breanna St. Onge of Rochester and Nicholas Conte of Liverpool; and his sister-in-law, Judy Plavocos.

Calling hours will take place on Saturday, March 8, 2025, from 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY, immediately followed by a funeral service in celebration of Spence’s life at 12:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to NAMI Syracuse, 917 Avery Avenue, Syracuse, NY 13204.