Rufus Buin Spain

Dr. Rufus B. Spain, retired history professor from Baylor University, died Thursday, November 16, 2023, in Waco, Texas, at the age of 100 years and 10 months. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at Lake Shore Baptist Church in Waco, Texas.

Dr. Spain was born in Pickens County, Alabama on January 29, 1923, to John Ellis and Nona Cameron Spain and he had one older brother, Glen.

After graduating from Murphy High School in Mobile, Alabama, Dr. Spain attended Mississippi College. Before achieving his undergraduate degree, Dr. Spain entered the Army and served in the European Theater during World War II. Upon returning, Dr. Spain resumed his education, and welcomed two children with his wife Elizabeth Finch. Dr. Spain again served in the Army during the Korean War, after which he completed his Ph.D in History from Vanderbilt University.

In 1957 Dr. Spain accepted the position of Professor of United States History, beginning his 55-year tenure at Baylor University that included not only his teaching career, but also his work in the Oral History Department, and finally serving as head of the Retired Professors Association. Dr. Spain’s tenure at Baylor is a legacy of his dedication to teaching, his advocacy for promoting the integration of the University, his activism in opposition to the Vietnam War, and his care for his colleagues. In each endeavor, Dr. Spain exhibited excellence, justice, courage, and peace.

Dr. Spain later married Carol Hanna and they welcomed two more children. In retirement, Dr. Spain enjoyed golf, travel, woodworking, and supporting the work of Lake Shore Baptist Church, where he has been an active member since 1968. His interest in life and his spirit of optimism endured to the end.

Dr. Spain is preceded in death by his parents, John, and Nona Spain; his brother, Glen; his first wife, Elizabeth; his second wife, Carol; his daughter, Elizabeth Anne; and his grandson, Wil Denny.

He is survived by his son, John, and his wife, Joanie; his daughter, Julie Meyer; and his son, David, and his wife, Pam; additionally, Dr. Spain is survived by 13 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Robert L. Gilbert Scholarship Fund at Baylor University or Lake Shore Baptist Church.