Gavin G. Spence *68

Gavin Spence, a corporation chemist who was noted for his work in paper chemistry, died Jan. 24, 2018, at the age of 75.

He graduated from Williams College in 1964 and earned a Ph.D. in chemistry from Princeton in 1968. His career took him to Hercules Inc. in Wilmington, Del., from 1968 to 1987; and Callaway Chemical Co. in Columbus, Ga., from 1987 to 2003. In 2003, he became an independent consultant.

Through the years, corporations in the United States, Indonesia, China, and Brazil sought him for his expertise. He had 24 U.S. patents and numerous citations for his work in paper chemistry.

He became a leading member of the Columbus Academy of Lifelong Learning at Columbus State University, teaching courses in fields ranging from organic chemistry to Broadway musicals. He also excelled at music, and for the past 25 years sang in his church choir.

Spence was predeceased by his wife of 48 years, Gerry. He is survived by three children and five grandchildren.

Graduate memorials are prepared by the APGA.