John Spencer was born on September 18, 1935 in Radcliffe, Bury, Greater Manchester, England, UK. He was married to Margot Sawbridge. He died on July 11, 2006 in Bolton, Greater Manchester, England, UK.
Three time winner of the World Snooker Championship in 1969, 1971 and 1977.
First snooker player to make a maximum 147 break in competition at the Holsten Lager International, in January 1979. This was not recognised as an official maximum as the event used non-templated tables.
His partner during his final 15 years was Jean Shepherd.