Tributes have been pouring in from across the Island for a community champion and devoted family man who passed away last week.

Father-of-nine Carlston “Blondy” Spencer (right) was 72 years old when he died on June 10. Mr Spencer was a well-known vocalist initially with Johnny and the Pebbles and later with the Steelers, and he ran Captain Blondy’s restaurant in Hamilton Parish for many years.

He was a familiar face at the Hamilton Parish Workman’s Club, where for decades he served on the executive board and was the club’s branch chairman. Scores of family and friends attended the popular musician’s funeral service yesterday at the Seventh-day Adventist Church to pay their respects.

His daughter, Carlene Spencer-Darrell, told The Royal Gazette: “He was such a selfless man. He was always putting everyone else before himself.

“Even when he was sick he was making sure that everyone was ok.

“He loved his family and he loved to travel, Cuba being his most favourite place. He loved how happy the people were there.

“Fishing was also passion of his and he was truly devoted to all of his family.”

Mr Spencer was brought up in the Harlem Heights area of Bailey’s Bay.

He was an avid fisherman, a body builder and also worked as a taxi driver, as well as running Captain Blondy’s restaurant.

His sister, Betsy Spencer-Dunn, said: “Carlston was my brother, my friend and my confidante.

“Some of his fondest memories were of his friends from Sandringham School, especially those classmates from Camp Hill.

“Carlston was very dependable. If he made a promise to you, you could be certain he would keep it.” Close friend and cousin Alan Smith added: “Blondy was an inspiration to Bermuda’s young. He was always looking at what he could do to help the youth.

“He made everyone feel very comfortable in his company. He always had a welcoming smile and was easy to talk to.

“He was such a versatile person, he could throw his hand to everything from entertaining to plumbing to fishing.

“Blondy was also very dynamic too and he battled right to the end. He is one of the strongest guys that I have ever known.”