Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

October 1, 2025

Rebecca Holton Spaugh, “Beckie,” age 97, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 1, at the Levine & Dickson Hospice House in Huntersville.

Beckie was born and raised in Belmont along with her two older sisters, O’Neil Gaston and Betty Howe.   She attended Sacred Heart College, and thanks to the hard work and generosity of her sisters, she was later able to transfer to UNC at Chapel Hill. It was there where she immersed herself in the “Carolina college life,” participating in all women’s athletics, social and sports events, and where she proudly served as a Carolina cheerleader. One of her most unforgettable moments was when she was given the honor of ringing the victory bell after UNC’s football triumph over Duke in 1949.

While at UNC she earned a scholarship to the physical therapy program at Medical College of Virginia (MCV), where she met her future husband, Dr. Earle Spaugh, a beloved Charlotte pediatrician. After they were married they moved to Charlotte where they raised their children, Sue and Rick. Beckie also began her 40 year career as a practicing physical therapist, treating many Charlotteans over the years, some more than once---including her own daughter, Sue, coaching her through several orthopaedic rehabs.

Her talents and passions reached far beyond her profession. An excellent golfer, Beckie begrudgingly recalled that to pass her physical education exam, she had to hit a golf ball from one end of Kenan Stadium to the other through the goal post uprights…. and she succeeded. As a fierce competitor, she showed no mercy during her annual golf grudge match with her son-in-law, which she always managed to win using her sharp wit and psychological gamesmanship.   While immensely proud of her hole-in-one, her most special time on the golf course was a round with her grandson James on his birthday.

Beckie was also a founding member of the Charlotte Mannequins, a local modeling club. She set the stage for her granddaughter Kelly, who as a little girl played dress-up in many of her “fancy dresses,” emulating Beckie’s most beautiful style.   She was a creative genius when it came to costumes, which meant that Halloween was always a surprise.  

Her life was rooted in her faith. She found fellowship and community in her 40 years at the Little Church on the Lane, and more recently at Providence United Methodist Church.

Known for her fearless spirit, lively humor, and love of celebration, Beckie will be remembered as the life of the party. Even while driving her car, Tar Heel pennants would be flapping in the breeze.   She will be deeply missed by her family and friends, who will forever treasure her humor, warmth, and zest for life.

Beckie was preceded in death by her parents, S.R. and Vernie Holton, her husband Dr. Earle Spaugh and her son Rick Spaugh. She is survived by her daughter Sue Dunville (Jim) and by her grandchildren James Dunville and Kelly Falk (John), along with her nieces and nephews and their extended families.

A graveside service will be held at Evergreen Cemetery at Noon on Monday, October 6.

Memorials may be sent to Via Health Partners/Hospice

Arrangements are in care of Kenneth W Poe Funeral and Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC