Central Texas community remembers musician Chris Spicer, who died suddenly at age 38

WACO, Texas (KWTX) – Friends of Chris Spicer are paying tribute to the musician, who died suddenly on September 2 after being admitted to a local hospital the day before.

Born and raised in McLennan County, Spicer was an active musician and MMA fighter, even holding a black belt and coaching others in various martial arts.

Local musician and friend Towne Adams would often play music with him and says he always followed his passions.

“Even Anthony Bourdain came and trained with him at his Dojo in Austin and he traveled all over the world and fought, but his passion was fighting and music,” Adams said.

In addition to helping out at his family’s store, Spicer’s Food Store, Spicer also mentored other musician friends, including Jonna Mae, who praised Spicer as someone who was always willing to help others.

“Self-confident, organized and responsible, she helped her father run the store and did everything that was expected of her, and she did it out of love in her heart,” Mae recalls.

Longtime friend Rebekah Gilliam said Spicer will be greatly missed in Central Texas and people will always remember his love for everyone.

“He was constantly telling you how much he loved you, and to be able to spend the last three days happier than we’ve been in a long time… It filled my heart with joy, and I know everyone around me felt the same,” Gilliam said.

A celebration of life for Chris Spicer will be held at the Doghouse sports bar in Waco on Tuesday at 3 p.m.