William King

1947 - 2026

That's it, sports fans!

Beloved husband, father, sportscaster, sailor, and devoted Boston Red Sox fan, William "Bill" Spencer King peacefully transitioned surrounded by family.

Born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, Bill spent much of his formative years gazing out at the numerous RI harbors, longing for a day he could spend his life on the water.

After receiving a degree in Journalism at the University of Rhode Island, Bill moved to Roanoke, Virginia to pursue a career in broadcasting, eventually landing the sports director position at WDBJ/CBS 7 where he covered countless local, regional and national events, and was the on-air sports anchor for 10 years.

In 1980, he moved to Richmond as sports director at WWBT/NBC 12 where he was again the sports anchor and continued to cover a variety of sports at all levels. The station's promotional tagline was "Sports is King". He hosted the Sonny Smith VCU Coaches show and was play-by-play announcer for numerous events, including VCU Rams men's basketball.

Richmond also put him closer to the Chesapeake Bay and his dream of sailing. He was often found on the bay near Deltaville honing his sailing skills. He was always happiest on the water with his family by his side.

In 1996, Bill joined Westminster Canterbury Richmond as vice president of sales and marketing. His astute observations and dry wit were a welcomed presence, which, along with his diplomacy and compassion, were instrumental in expanding WCR into the award winning Continuing Care Retirement Community it is today.

Bill served on numerous boards including Richmond Hill, Church Hill Association, Focus Club of Richmond, Mathews Yacht Club and Better Business Bureau of Central Virginia. He was also part of the Class of 2000 Leadership Metro Richmond and a regular news reader for Virginia Voice.

After retirement, Bill pursued his lifelong dream of cruising and spent three years onboard, navigating between Maine, Florida and Quebec with wife First Mate Kate. They eventually relocated to Stuart, FL surrounded by great cruising waters, jumping-off points and warmth.

In 2023, Bill and Kate returned to Richmond, a city dear to them, where they could be closer to the friends and family they loved.

"Red sky at night Sailor's delight, red in mourning, Sailor's warning": Bill has set sail on his final voyage and is surely enjoying the smooth seas that lie ahead.

Bill is survived by his wife of 29 years, Kathryn, sons Dylan (Nicola) and Bowe, and grandson Coltrane.

In lieu of flowers, please give to one of the organizations closest to Bill's heart: Richmond Hill (2209 E Grace St, Richmond, VA 23223) or St. Raphael Academy (King Family Scholarship, 123 Walcott St, Pawtucket, RI 02860).

A memorial service will be held March 6, 2026 at 2 p.m. at Westminster Canterbury Richmond, 1600 Westbrook Avenue.