Eric Peter Spector

Eric Peter Spector, 71, of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, after an extended illness.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mathew P. and Beverly A. Spector, and by his beloved wife of 19 years, Carolyn Keenan Spector.

Born October 19, 1953, in Boston, Massachusetts, Eric grew up in Sharon and graduated from Sharon High School. His love of the water began on Lake Massapoag, where he learned to sail, a passion that carried him through a lifetime of boating, fishing, and adventure. Drawn to the charm of the Lowcountry, Eric made Hilton Head Island his home for more than four decades. He traveled widely, from sailing the Caribbean to fishing in Costa Rica, and lived life on his own terms, even through illness. Eric’s career began at Valle’s Steak House, an early foundation for his future success in the restaurant industry. On Hilton Head, he became a partner in the Crazy Crab, helping shape one of the island’s most beloved dining institutions and laying the groundwork for Hilton Head’s larger hospitality community. Yet his greatest pride wasn’t measured in business ventures, but in the people whose lives he touched.

Eric is survived by his siblings: Avis Rollison of Hilton Head Island and hepartner, Richard Larson; Ellie Hackett and her husband Joseph of Marshfield, MA; and Scott Spector and his wife Elizabeth of Indian Trail, NC. He also leaves behind his nieces and nephews: Clayton Rollison (Kelly) of Bluffton, SC; Jake Rollison (Bridget) of Tampa, FL; Michelle Hackett (Bryan Parkin) of Framingham, MA; Frank Hackett (Sara) of Pottsboro, TX; and Nicholas Spector of Indian Trail, NC. He was a proud grand-uncle to Kennedy, Bridget, Gradyn, Wyatt, Greyson, Reagan, Maeve, Wesley, and Owen. In his later years, he found joy and companionship with Jayne Moulder, who survives him.

His home became a haven for family gatherings, holidays, and the simple joys of vibrant pool days. At the center of it all was Eric’s gentle reminder: “No crying in the pool.” More than a rule, it became a way of life—an invitation to set aside troubles, embrace joy, and fill every moment with laughter and love.

Those who knew Eric will remember him as the steady anchor of his family and a mentor whose influence rippled far beyond his immediate circle. He became family to many—lifting people from hardship to stability, and offering guidance in moments both ordinary and profound. He is remembered for his wisdom, fierce loyalty, and quiet sacrifices. His legacy endures in the lives he shaped, the businesses he helped build, and the family he held so dear.

The family will hold a private burial. Friends and loved ones are invited to join us in celebrating Eric’s life at The Crazy Crab on Jarvis Creek, Monday, September 8, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. All who knew and loved Eric are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to The David M. Carmines Memorial Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting local charities that benefit the Lowcountry’s culinary community — a community Eric proudly contributed to for decades. Contributions may be mailed to DMC at P.O. Box 22519, Hilton Head Island, SC 29925, or made online at hiltonheadseafoodfestival.com/donate.