Middleburg's Piedmont Community Foundation recently announced receipt of a $7,500 gift for the Frederick L. Spencer, Jr., Memorial Fund from the late Fred Spencer's fellow artists at "A Class Act", a non-profit organization. This gift has raised the fund that is held in a permanent endowment to over $20,000.

Local artist and art teacher, Doris Weeks, wanted to create a meaningful tribute to Fred, as did his fellow artists who take her classes as he was a treasured member of the group. With the support of the "class," Doris set up a special art show and sale to benefit Fred's memorial fund at PCF. The event took place in late October at The Trinity Episcopal Church Parish House in Upperville and featured paintings by Fred. Friends provided a multitude of assistance including musical ambience and broad attendance by many who rearranged the timing of their own community activities so they would not conflict with the show.

A color photo of Fred's watercolor entitled 'Summer Squash' was used on the invitational post card and artists in the show agreed they would donate the proceeds of their artwork sales to benefit Fred's fund at PCF. Much of Fred's own artwork was also exhibited at the show, and sales of Fred's paintings contributed significantly to the $7,500 gift.

As both teacher and friend, Doris Weeks emphasized that, "…Fred's talent as a watercolorist was constantly improving. His final paintings reflect his joy of work and his desire to always strive for the best he could do." She went on to comment that Fred was a diligent student, sometimes up as early at 4 a.m. to prepare for class. His fellow artists at "A Class Act" found him an inspiration and someone to count on in every aspect of their work together.

The Frederick L. Spencer, Jr. Memorial Fund endowment will make annual grants available to local non-profit groups representing the arts, music and drama, all of which were integral parts of Fred's life. He and his widow, Molly, shared countless good times with friends in the arts community.

The Fund in his name brings a special joy to Molly, knowing that Fred's spirit and good deeds will continue in the community because of wonderful friends who have chosen to pay tribute in this caring manner. As a member of "A Class Act" artists, Molly framed and matted Fred's works for the show with a large, eclectic frame collection accumulated by Fred. Close friends Doris and Peter Weeks helped Molly choose which paintings were best suited for each frame.

The first grant from Fred's memorial fund will be available for grant application in the fourth quarter of this year, and every year thereafter. Those wishing to remember Fred Spencer through his endowment fund at the PCF may send their remembrance to: PCF, P.O. Box 402, Middleburg, VA 20118. Please direct questions regarding the Fund to PCF Executive Director, Karen Krei, at 540-687-5223.