Mr. William W. "Bill" Spellman

ILION/SAUQUOIT – Mr. William W. “Bill” Spellman, age 76, passed away among his family on Sunday, February 23, 2025. Born in Utica on July 6, 1948, William was the son of the late Robert and Hazel (Trusty) Spellman. He attended Utica Free Academy and continued his studies at MVCC. He was proud to have honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. On May 22, 1971, Bill married the former Geraldine “Gerry” Howard. Together, they overcame life’s obstacles. William was a devoted provider and had a wonderful sense of humor. Their nearly 54 years together were an immense blessing to both of them. Bill began his employment with the Whitesboro School System as a groundsman. He then brought his skills to Waterbury Mill in Oriskany where he worked as a machinist. He also held employment at Utica Fish as a store associate and delivery driver. Lastly, he moved on to the Walmart Distribution Center as a lift driver until his retirement. Above all else, William was kindhearted and possessed an empathetic nature. He was the type of man who could always find the good in a situation and saw humor as a part of life. Quiet by nature, when he got to know you, he would not hold back anything! He was sensitive to life’s events and the needs of his loved ones, especially his children, whom he adored with his unspoken words and kind, loving deeds. Bill loved the sun – he could often be found soaking it in with a cup of coffee or Pepsi in hand. Always astute to other’s actions and reactions, he was a seasoned people-watcher. Bill was frequently the first on the dance floor, no matter what the occasion, with his infectious attitude inviting everyone to join him. He enjoyed golfing at Pine Hills and Sauquoit Knolls often with his son-in-law, Shannon ~ these times on the fairways together made for many fond memories. Bill found the benefits in daily exercise and he and Gerry once took daily walks together. During his illness he loved taking car rides, which were very therapeutic for him. He also had a special affinity for Christmas Eve gatherings and the 4th of July combined birthday celebrations. He considered his devotion to his family his life’s crowning accomplishment. As a testament to this, his wife and children loved him so much that they devoted themselves to him during his illness, attending to his every need. Bill was a member of the VFW Post #7393, NY Mills. He also was a member of the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion, and was a true believer, the type who was unafraid to affirm his faith openly. One of his frequent sayings, which always brought many laughs and will fondly be remembered, was, “If you’re feeling hungry, go look in the mirror and you’ll be fed up!” Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Gerry; children and their spouses, William M. “Bill” and Divina Spellman, Kimberly “Kim” and Shannon Lazarek, and David Spellman. He treasured the memory of his daughter, Michelle Jordan, who passed away on December 17, 2016, leaving his son-in-law, Steve Jordan. His loss is also felt by his grandchildren, Alexandria “Allie” and JD Reid, Steven Jordan, Jr., Tyler Jordan, Nicole Jordan, Melody Jordan; Dominique Spellman and Jordan Kane; Kiley Lazarek, Addison Lazarek; identical twins Jonathon, and Anthony Spellman and their mother Stacey Jo Crim, Denver Spellman and his mother Heather, and Marina Dudek; and great-grandchildren, Maylee, Madalyn, and Wyatt Reid. One of nine children, he is survived by his beloved siblings and their spouses, Sue and Kyle LaPierre, Eve Irwin, Jackie and Scott Earley, Michael and Natalie Spellman, Robert and Kathy Spellman, Jimmy and Linda Spellman, and Ray J. and Lisa Janicke. He cherished the memory of his brother, Danny Spellman, who passed away as a young boy. He will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews; and in-laws, Janice Loomis, Susan Towne, Judy and Brad Inman, MaryBeth and Carey Fortman, and Tim Howard. Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. William’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home. For those wishing to express an act of kindness in Bill’s memory, floral offerings are graciously accepted.

Mr. William W. "Bill" Spellman

July 6, 1948 - February 23, 2025