By SIGNIS with information from the Catholic Review
Anthony J. “Tony” Spence, former director and editor-in-chief of Catholic News Service (CNS), passed away on July 28 in Nashville, Tennessee, after a prolonged illness. He was 71.
Spence’s dedication to Catholic journalism and his leadership in the field left an indelible mark. He was a true champion of Catholic media, serving as a beacon of integrity and professionalism throughout his career. His contributions were multifaceted, including his role as one of the founding board members of SIGNIS North America, where he played a crucial part in shaping the organization’s mission to promote communication in the service of a culture of peace and human dignity.
“The Catholic Media Association is grateful to God for the life of Tony Spence,” expressed Gretchen R. Crowe, editor-in-chief of OSV News and president of the CMA board, alongside Rob DeFrancesco, CMA’s executive director, in a joint statement on July 30. “Tony’s leadership as board president from 1994-1996 and his receipt of the St. Francis de Sales Award in 2010—our highest individual honor—are testaments to his outstanding contributions to Catholic journalism. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.”
Spence was affectionately described by those who knew him well as the quintessential “Southern gentleman,” a term that encapsulated his grace, charm, and deep-rooted values. Rick Mussachio, executive director of the Tennessee Catholic Conference and Spence’s successor as editor of the Tennessee Register newspaper of the Nashville Diocese in 1988, remarked, “He carried the dignity of a Southern gentleman, that of an old-time Nashvillian. He was instrumental in connecting me to the Catholic community in Nashville.”
Tony Spence’s leadership extended beyond journalism. As president of the Catholic Press Association (CPA) from 1994 to 1996, he oversaw significant developments, including the establishment of the Catholic Advertising Network and the Catholic Press Foundation. His visionary work also led to the founding of the Appalachian Press Project of Kentucky and Tennessee, initiatives that demonstrated his commitment to fostering communication and media that served the Church’s mission.
His role as a co-founder of SIGNIS North America, part of the global Catholic association for communications, further solidified his influence in Catholic media. Spence’s contributions were not limited to North America; he was also a board member of SIGNIS International, where he advocated for the Church’s communication efforts on a global scale.
SIGNIS President Helen Osman, who worked with Spence during her tenure as secretary of communications for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, reflected on his unique qualities. “Tony was a delight as a colleague,” she said. “He truly knew his craft as a journalist and editor. His ‘Tony-isms,’ those unique Southern expressions, were legendary and brought a smile to many faces.”
Spence’s impact was also deeply personal for many of his colleagues. Carol Zimmermann, a former reporter at CNS, recalled, “Tony Spence was kind to a fault. He embodied the old-school Southern gentleman, always greeting others with a warm smile, holding doors open, and genuinely inquiring about one’s family.”
Greg Erlandson, who succeeded Spence as director and editor-in-chief of CNS, echoed these sentiments. “Tony was appreciated for his dedication, hard work, hearty laugh, and generous spirit. He was quick to praise good work and never hesitated to express his concerns about issues within the Church and U.S. politics.”
During his tenure at CNS from 2004 to 2016, Spence’s leadership was characterized by a deep commitment to journalistic excellence. His work was recognized with numerous accolades, including his appointment as a consultor to the Pontifical Council for Social Communications in 2006.
Spence’s career began in Nashville, where he served as editor-in-chief and general manager of the Tennessee Register from 1989 to 1998. His earlier roles included associate editor, managing editor, and communications director for the Nashville Diocese, where he laid the groundwork for what would become a lifelong vocation in Catholic media.
In 2010, Spence was honored with the St. Francis de Sales Award at the annual Catholic Media Convention in New Orleans. In his acceptance speech, he reflected on his journey, saying, “It was much more than a job—it was a vocation. And one I truly love.”
Born on December 27, 1952, to Joe A. and Ruth Robertson Spence, Tony attended Father Ryan High School in Nashville and later graduated from Vanderbilt University. Despite his recent struggles with kidney failure and other ailments, he remained positive and continued to inspire those around him with his resilience and unwavering commitment to Catholic journalism.
Tony Spence’s legacy is one of dedication, innovation, and compassion. His contributions to Catholic journalism and his role in founding SIGNIS North America will continue to influence and inspire future generations.