Longtime Indianapolis television journalist Tanya Spencer passed away at the age of 53 after battling colon cancer. Spencer worked in journalism for over 20 years, spending 10 years as a reporter and news anchor at WRTV. She shared a final message on Facebook before her death, emphasizing the importance of time and good health as true commodities.
Spencer, known as Tanya Sumner after her marriage, was diagnosed with colon cancer in November 2022 and underwent emergency surgery. The cancer spread throughout her abdomen due to a fast-growing genetic mutation, leading her to try cancer-fighting medications after chemotherapy failed. Despite her personal battle with cancer, Spencer advocated for health and encouraged others to get colonoscopies. She graduated from Western Kentucky University in 1996 and began her career as an anchor and reporter in Evansville, Ind.
After leaving WRTV in 2015, Spencer transitioned to a role in public relations and became a councilwoman for the town of Whitestown. She also served as the Vice President for Whitestown’s District 3, dedicating herself to her community as a public servant. Colleagues and community members remembered Spencer as someone committed to excellence, hardworking, and private. They expressed their condolences and shared memories of her impact on the community.
Emmy award-winning WRTV anchor Rafael Sánchez paid tribute to Spencer’s dedication and hard work, asking for positive thoughts for her family. Whitestown Town Manager Katie Barr described Spencer as a dedicated councilwoman who cared deeply for her community, family, and colleagues. The town of Zionsville also mourned the loss of Spencer, recognizing her as a true public servant who made a positive impact on both Whitestown and Zionsville.
Spencer’s husband and teenage son survive her, and her legacy lives on through her work as a journalist and public servant. Her advocacy for health, dedication to her community, and commitment to excellence were remembered by those who knew her. Spencer’s impact on her colleagues, friends, and neighbors was deeply felt, and her love for her community will be greatly missed. Through her work and advocacy, Spencer leaves a lasting legacy of service and compassion.
