The death of Tanya Spencer, a seasoned television journalist, has left the community of Indianapolis, Indiana in sorrow. Spencer, who was professionally known as Tanya Sumner after her marriage, died at 53 on Friday, May 24, 2024, after a lengthy battle with colon cancer. Her journalism career spanned over 20 years, 10 of which were spent at WRTV.
Spencer’s journalism career began after receiving her degree from Western Kentucky University in 1996. She first made her presence felt at 14 WFIE in Evansville, Indiana, where she worked until 2005. Spencer then transitioned to WRTV in Indianapolis, gaining respect as a reporter and anchor.
In November 2022, Spencer’s life was dramatically altered when she was diagnosed with colon cancer following emergency surgery. The cancer, driven by a rare and aggressive KRAS G12C genetic mutation, had already metastasized throughout her abdomen. Despite chemotherapy and other cancer treatments, the disease progressed. By September 2023, the treatments had proven unsuccessful.
Despite her illness, Spencer continued to promote health awareness, encouraging regular colonoscopies. She underscored the significance of early detection in a frank interview with WRTV, stating, “It’s true that a colonoscopy is uncomfortable and unpleasant, and no one looks forward to it. But it’s important to get it done at age 45. If I had discovered my tumor, which was the size of a grapefruit, six years earlier, things would be very different now.”
Spencer’s advocacy was deeply personal, sharing her own delayed diagnosis challenges. She stressed the importance of time and good health in a heartfelt Facebook post, reminding her followers that these are the only real commodities and currencies that truly matter.
Spencer’s professional life was marked by dedication and commitment. Her colleague, Emmy award-winning WRTV anchor Rafael Sánchez, paid a touching tribute to her, stating, “She was dedicated and hardworking, yet valued her privacy. Please keep her husband, son, father, family, and friends in your thoughts.”
After leaving WRTV in 2015, Spencer remained an active member of her community, first as Director of Public Relations and later as a councilwoman for Whitestown, approximately 30 minutes from Indianapolis. She also held the position of Vice President for Whitestown’s District 3. Whitestown Town Manager Katie Barr praised Spencer as a dedicated leader, stating, “Her passion for this community was contagious, and she will be deeply missed.”
The communities of Whitestown and Zionsville, both nearby, mourned and honored Spencer. A statement from Zionsville praised her as a “true public servant” and highlighted the positive impact of her efforts, “Tanya was a dedicated public servant, a loving wife, and a mother. She will be missed by everyone. Her contributions have made both Whitestown and Zionsville better places. We extend our deepest condolences on behalf of all of us.”
Spencer’s battle with cancer also presented a significant financial challenge. She required two costly medications not covered by insurance, amounting to a combined $35,000 each month. Her friends and community raised funds through a GoFundMe campaign to help manage the financial strain. Friends Julia Kathary and Jody Chiarotti played key roles in her fight, advocating for her and ensuring she received the necessary treatments.
In a news interview, Spencer expressed gratitude for her friends’ support, “They’ve been my advocates. They’ve lifted me.” Their support underscores the importance of community and friendship during challenging times.
Spencer leaves behind her husband and their teenage son. Her work as a journalist, public servant, and health advocate continues to inspire those who knew her. As the Indianapolis community grieves her loss, her words of wisdom and bravery in the face of adversity reflect her strength and character.
