Rufus B. Spain

Rufus B. Spain, ABC ’07, retired Baylor history professor, died Nov. 16, 2023, in Waco, at the age of 100.

Spain was born Jan. 29, 1923, in Pickens County, AL, to John Ellis and Nona Cameron Spain. He had one older brother, Glen.

After graduating from Murphy High School in Mobile, AL, Spain attended Mississippi College. However, before achieving his undergraduate degree, Spain entered the Army and served in the European Theater during World War II. Spain resumed his education upon return and welcomed two children with his wife, Elizabeth Finch. Spain again served in the Army during the Korean War, after which he completed his PhD in history from Vanderbilt University.

In 1957, Spain accepted the position of professor of United States history, beginning his 55-year tenure at Baylor University that included not only his teaching career, but also his work in the oral history department, and finally serving as head of the Retired Professors Association. 

Spain later married Carol Hanna and they welcomed two more children. In retirement, Spain enjoyed golf, travel, woodworking and supporting the work of Lake Shore Baptist Church, where he was an active member since 1968. His interest in life and his spirit of optimism endured to the end.