📸: @markspaintvnews on Facebook (11/19/2024)
Mark Spain, the charismatic lead anchor for WSET-TV in Lynchburg, Virginia, passed away on December 18, 2024, at the age of 64, after a brief battle with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Spain’s legacy as a journalist, community leader, and beacon of positivity leaves an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Career Spanning Decades
Mark Spain’s journey in journalism began in Cleveland, Ohio, as a young paperboy for The Cleveland Press. His passion for storytelling led him to pursue a degree in communications at Cleveland State University. Over the years, Spain built an illustrious career with roles in Fort Wayne, Indiana; Erie, Pennsylvania; Indianapolis; Cleveland; and Jacksonville, Florida, where he anchored at First Coast News for 14 years before joining WSET in Lynchburg in 2015. (News & Advance; First Coast News; WSLS)
At WSET, Spain became a household name as the lead anchor for the evening and late news shows. Known for his professionalism and warmth, he won multiple awards, including Best News Anchor from the Associated Press of the Virginias in 2018 and 2019. (WSLS;Â First Coast News)
A Pillar of the Lynchburg Community
Beyond his work in the newsroom, Spain was a dedicated community advocate. His trademark greeting, “Morning sunshines,” captured his uplifting spirit. He often participated in charity events, raised awareness for important causes, and used his platform to highlight the needs of others. He was an avid runner and a passionate supporter of local organizations. (News & Advance; WSLS; The US Sun)
Spain’s battle with cancer inspired an outpouring of support. In the weeks following his diagnosis, the Lynchburg community rallied around him and his family, offering prayers, messages, and gestures of kindness. Local businesses displayed signs of encouragement, and elected officials expressed their gratitude for his contributions. (News & Advance; First Coast News)
A Legacy of Positivity and Kindness
Spain is survived by his wife, Lynita, and their three children. Lynita described her husband as a “husband, father, brother, friend, and a positive light in the community.” She shared, “He brought so much joy, compassion, love, and strength into our lives, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.” (The US Sun; Express US)
WSET Vice President George Kayes said, “Mark was a vital part of our station. He was family. Mark was a leader in the community and loved his job.” The station temporarily paused its news broadcasts to allow colleagues time to grieve, a testament to the impact Spain had on his workplace. (WSLS; News & Advance)
Lynchburg Mayor Stephanie Reed shared, “Sending out prayers to the Spain family and our entire community. Such a loss.” At-large Councilman Martin Misjuns added, “Mark Spain was one of the best Lynchburg had to offer—a great man in every aspect.” (News & Advance)
Celebrating a Life Well Lived
Mark Spain’s legacy is defined by his dedication to journalism, his service to the community, and his unshakable optimism. He leaves behind a profound example of kindness, respect, and resilience. As Lynchburg continues to mourn, the memory of Mark Spain remains a source of inspiration for all who strive to make a difference.
Sources:
• News & Advance: “WSET Anchor Mark Spain, Known for His Positivity, Dies of Cancer,” December 2024
• WSLS: “ABC 13 News Anchor Mark Spain Passes Away Following Battle with Pancreatic Cancer,” December 2024
• The US Sun: “Beloved TV Anchor Mark Spain Dies Weeks After Cancer Diagnosis,” December 2024
• First Coast News: “Mark Spain Dies After Cancer Battle,” December 2024
• Express US: “Action News Anchor Mark Spain Dies of Pancreatic Cancer,” December 2024
