Respected news anchor Mark Spain, who worked for ABC affiliate WSET-TV in Lynchburg, Virginia, succumbed to Stage 4 pancreatic cancer on December 18, 2024. Spain, who was 64 at the time of his death, was diagnosed just three weeks before.
Spain began chemotherapy treatment on December 16 but passed away after two days. Lynita Carter Spain, his wife, used social media to announce his death, characterizing him as a beacon of hope who stood for equality, treating everyone with respect and kindness. She reminisced about their 23-year marriage, describing it as a beautiful journey filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Spain’s career in news media started at the age of nine, delivering newspapers for the Cleveland Press. After earning a degree in Communications from Cleveland State University, he worked in various major markets, such as Indianapolis, Indiana; Cleveland, Ohio; and Jacksonville, Florida. In 2015, he joined WSET-TV in Lynchburg, Virginia, where he served as the primary anchor for the evening and late shows.
During his tenure at WSET-TV, Spain received several awards, including Best News Anchor by the Association Press of the Virginias in 2018 and 2019. He also won first place for Outstanding News Series in 2018 and Best Documentary or Public Affairs Program in 2022 from the Virginia Association of Broadcasters. His reporting was particularly recognized for its focus on community issues and investigative depth.
Prior to WSET-TV, Spain dedicated 14 years to Jacksonville, Florida’s First Coast News. Upon hearing of Spain’s death, the station’s General Manager, Tim Thomas, expressed deep sadness, praising Spain’s commitment to improving the First Coast through his work. Spain was known for mentoring young professionals and covering stories that had significant impacts on local communities during his tenure in Jacksonville.
Following his cancer diagnosis, the Lynchburg community showed their support for Spain by organizing a “Purple Out” day. Liberty University in Lynchburg lit up the Freedom Tower in purple, one of Spain’s favorite colors, to show solidarity during his fight with the disease. The Danville Police Department also offered their condolences, acknowledging Spain’s coverage of numerous department stories.
Spain had a significant impact on various community initiatives, including raising $75,000 for the Jubilee Family Development Center in Lynchburg. Former colleague Kristen Mirand, now a reporter and anchor at WKBW-TV in Buffalo, New York, remembered Spain as an inspirational figure who was committed to mentoring budding journalists and delivering accurate, empathetic reporting.
WSET-TV colleagues paid tribute to Spain, remembering his positivity and infectious smile. His optimistic outlook remained steadfast even after sharing news of his cancer diagnosis in early December, leaving a lasting impression on his family, the WSET-TV team, and the thousands of viewers who invited him into their homes each evening.
Spain is survived by his wife Lynita and their three children, two daughters and a son. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist his family and has raised over $28,000 to date.
