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BORN
1932
DIED
2022
Bill Spoone Obituary
Bill and Pat were high school sweethearts at Morristown High School where Bill was the captain of the football team and basketball team his senior year. He earned a football scholarship to the University of Tennessee in 1952, the last class of Coach General Neyland. He is a member of the UT Letterman's Club. He graduated from UT with a degree in Education in 1956.
He began his teaching and football coaching career at Etowah, TN and then moved his family to Orlando in 1958 where he began coaching at Edgewater High School. He was a teacher and football coach at Oviedo High School, Deland High School and Evans High School.
After earning a Master's Degree in Education at Rollins College he became the principal at Howard Junior High in 1971 for 3 years, followed by Oak Ridge High School for 12 years, and Dr. Phillips High School for 6 years. He was the first principal of Dr. Phillips High School. He then served as a member of the Orange County School Board for 8 years.
Bill was a 30-year member of the Dr. Phillips Rotary Club, a group that provided him with 30 years of friendships. He received the Paul Harris Fellow three times and served as the president of the club for a year.
He is a member of the Oak Ridge High School Sports Hall of Fame and the Morristown High School Sports Hall of Fame. Oak Ridge High School named the gymnasium the William C. Spoone Gymnasium and Dr. Phillips High School named the football stadium Bill Spoone Stadium
Bill was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather, always loving and full of fun. In all his dealings in life he tried to be fair and caring to others. He was a great storyteller (and sports fan!) He looked out for and championed the underdog. He got to marry the love of his life. Hip, hip, hooray, Bill Spoone, for a life well lived!
A private burial this week will be followed in spring by a Celebration of Life at the First Unitarian Church of Orlando.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to join them in honoring Bill's lifetime commitment to education by helping them create the Bill and Pat Spoone Scholarship at Valencia College. Donations can be made online at https://valencia.org/donate/ or by sending a check made payable to Valencia College Foundation to Valencia College Foundation, PO Box 3028, MC: DO-41, Orlando, FL 32802. Please indicate your donation is in memory of Bill Spoone.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Bill Spoone
Sponsored by The Orlando Sentinel.
Patricia Seibert Mikkelsen
January 24, 2024
Bill Spoone gave me my first teaching job in Orlando after I married & moved there in 1972. He was such a man of integrity and a super school administrator. I feel fortunate to have worked under him. Wishing his family blessings and comfort.
Winefred Marshall
January 13, 2024
Mr. Spoone as a Principal was a Very Wonderful Pleasure to have. He had SO MUCH SCHOOL SPIRIT and He Was A GREAT FATHER FIGURE TO MANY OF US.His Office was always open to us to talk about many things. I remember when they had allowed us to Smoke in School. He did not like but he did not hurt those of us that did Smoke and he made wanting to come to School EVERYDAY. I would Live on Game Day or Pep Rallys he would be the First to send out the Call. He made the cross over to coming to a White School EASY AND COMFORTABLE AND HE MADE SURE THE STAFF WAS TO FOLLOW HIS LEAD. HE cared how we felt. Mr. Spoone was just A Man that had a Love for Education as well. We at Oak Ridge had a Very Proud Love of being a Family. We as STUDENTS WERE MORE THAN THAT TO HIM. HE GAVE LOVE,RESPECT AND ATTENTION AND HE GOT ALL 3 BACK AND MORE. WE GAVE HIM OUR BEST. EVEN AS A OCPS MEMBER He shared with others. He was A Down TO Earth Man in which I will never forget. Thank You Mr. Spoone. Rest easy for you have set The Bar for many other Principals to follow
Janice Spoone
January 1, 2024
I miss talking to cousin Bill and all his stories. Also remembering his last visit to Tennessee with his family. I recently had a Mother Irene birth date celebration with cousins at the Spoone farm to remember my parents who were Irene and Howard Spoone who was Bill's uncle. Bill would have loved the day, the stories told, pictures shared and family recipes eaten as well as walking to the creek on the farm.
LaTonya BLAIR Miller
December 29, 2023
Mr. Spoone was the best Principal ever!!!!!
Class of 1992
Dr. Phillips High
Steve Spencer, Hendersonville NC
May 29, 2022
Best coach I ever had!
RIP Coach Spoon
suzanne lipscomb, ORHS Class of 76
May 22, 2022
Condolences to the family of this wonderful man who touched the lives of so many young people and taught us to believe in ourselves, strive to always do our best and to be kind and thoughtful of others.
Sarah Sprinkel
May 3, 2022
I'll never forget the day Bill took me into Harris Rosen's office and we left with the Tangelo Park Pilot Project - he was a pivotal force in education and will always be cherished and fondly remembered. Go Vols.
Kim Boren
March 24, 2022
My sincere condolences to all his family, friends and students from all the years! He was an inspiring man that genuinely cared about people. He will be dearly missed!
Norman Simpers Jr
March 14, 2022
Mr. Spoone was THE BEST PRINCIPAL EVA!!!! I'll never forget him! Class of 85
Carmen Gill
February 12, 2022
My condolences to the family of Bill Spoone. I was a student at Howard when Mr. Spoone was the principal .
Janice Spoone
January 22, 2022
Bill was my Father's nephew so my first cousin. What a positive, fun person to be around. He made many trips to return to Morristown, Tn. to visit us. I will never forget that he made the effort to attend my Mother's funeral. He said it was the best funeral he ever attended. Once when he spent the night at my house he said that the bed was the best bed he had ever slept in. As you can see there was always a best. Once he had a big party on a visit inviting a big group of relatives. Some of his first cousins on his Mother's side of the family are also my first cousins through my Mother. So when we had parties we were all there. When we visited you in Orlando you and your family were the perfect hosts. When he last visited Morristown to bring his grandsons to experience what he and Pat have told them about for years, he was full of family stories as always. We loved your enthusiasm, family stories, wonderful accomplishments in education and your great,easy laugh. Miss you cousin.
Tom Carlsen and family
January 10, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Spoone family. I´m so sorry to hear the best Principal I ever had passed away. Coach Spoone had a great life and had such a positive affect on so many. He was firm, fair and fun! He was equally involved with all sports and all curriculum. He taught us to treat students and athletes like we would want our own children to be treated. Coach Spoone will be missed but not forgotten. RIP Coach.
Jon Erickson
January 9, 2022
For most of us, we probably can't remember by name our teachers and coaches who had a profound effect on our Life. Coach Bill Spoone was by far the best coach that I ever had. My condolences to the Spoone Family. RIP Coach, you were one of a kind!
Jon Erickson..... Edgewater High School Class of 1963
Ron Pillera
January 9, 2022
I was the Lead Programmer on the student team of OCPS back in the late 70´s early 80´s. I had the pleasure to work with Bill on many occasions when he was principal of Oak Ridge High School. My team helped, from an IT perspective, to implement the arena scheduling process at his school. Bill was quite the forward thinker, as this process had never been done at an OCPS school. Later, I worked for many years with Bill´s son Dan at Westinghouse and then Siemens. On my wife´s 50th birthday we had a pretty big celebration at Toucan Willie´s in Oviedo FL and since my wife was an OCPS teacher we had quite a few teachers present. Dan arranged for his father to stop by the celebration. Bill made quite an impact on those teachers in attendance. I´m sure Bill will be sorely missed by family, friends and colleagues. From your friends out here in San Diego, may you RIP Bill Spoone.
Arthur L Battles
January 8, 2022
I had the pleasure of meet for Mr Spoon as O had three Daughters that attended Dr Phillips. They were saddened and shocked to hear that he had Transitioned. Blessings for the Family.
Winefred Marshall
January 8, 2022
Oak Ridge High School Spirit Leader. He had that SPIRIT. I can remember seeing him running to the field with Yoooooo and we Students followed. YES Mr. Spooner is a Principal that I will never forget. Our School had THE BEST. I even got the chance to speak with him when he was a OCPS Member. He told me speak my Truth and I did and I got Favor. Yes he treated us and Lead us right into Our Future. Class of 77 Thank You
Chuck and Pamela Laub
January 8, 2022
We have fond memories of Bill that we'll hold in our hearts.
LaTonya BLAIR Miller
January 8, 2022
Mr. Spoone was a trailblazer and cared for all students. I shall always remember you!
Class of '92
Cristie Mcmillan
January 8, 2022
He was a wonderful man. Enjoyed my time at ORHS class of 75.
RIP ,
Zolton Williams
January 8, 2022
My condolences go out to Mr. Spoone family. Mr.Spoone was a great class of 1986 Principal. I remember him saying it's Great to be a Pioneer. Rest Pioneer !!!
Jim McCoy ORHS 1981
January 7, 2022
A great Principal. My condolances to the family, my classmates, and others
Alice Wright
January 7, 2022
When Bill Spoone hired me at Oak Ridge High School, it was the beginning of a long, marvelous relationship of mutual respect. I taught English there, where I was blessed to teach some of the most excellent students of my career while having the administrative support that every teacher desires. His respect for teachers was mirrored in his regard for students; no wonder they loved him so much! He was always fair, supportive, energetic, and imaginative. I still remember the faculty meetings where he began by saying, "This morning as I was shaving, I thought about..." In fact, his faculty meetings were not to be missed! After seven years at Oak Ridge, I went with him to open Orange County's newest high school: Dr. Phillips High. Those were demanding days, but Bill Spoone's enthusiasm and boundless energy made them a highlight of my teaching career. In short, Bill Spoone was my hero!
To his family, I send my heartfelt condolences as you grieve. He loved you greatly.
Annette Jansik
January 7, 2022
Greatest Principle & Role Model that I could ever ask for. Your gentle and understanding ways will always stay with me. You will be missed! R.I.P
Helen Thompson Johnson
January 7, 2022
Mr Spoone was The Best Principal Ever
He was Our Leader and Proud to Be a Pioneer. You may have done your Service at other Schools But You are Always a Pioneer. Love you Mr Spoone take your well Deserved Rest. YOOOOO !!!!!!!!!!!
Ariane Zeidwerg
January 6, 2022
Ariane Zeidwerg
January 6, 2022
Ariane Zeidwerg
January 6, 2022
Ariane Zeidwerg
January 6, 2022
A few photos from our EHS 45th Reunion with Coach Spoone and Coach Bozy Johnson!! The coaches chatting with James McLean, dancing with Beverly Foster Farmer and Diana Foster Carlander and me, Ariane Scherr Zeidwerg with both coaches!! Glorious memories for sure!!
Joan J. (Former Concepcion)
January 6, 2022
I remembered Principal William Spoone gave me an award "It is great to be Pioneer". He was wonderful spirits always. I wanted to say "Thank you for all he done at Oak Ridge High School from years 1985 to 1987". I truly miss him. Class of 1987 at Oak Ridge High School from his student Joan Concepcion Thank you!
Eileen Davitt
January 6, 2022
I had the honor of being a student when he was the Principal at Oak Ridge High school from1981-1984. I have wonderful memories of him. He was a kind and engaging principal. Even after all these years, I still remember him fondly. May he rest in peace.
Steve Udouj and Lorraine Surlak
January 5, 2022
We enjoyed Bill's warmth, wit and stories. His presence would enhance any gathering. And Bill welcomed all into his circle.
Frank(ie) James
January 5, 2022
Coach Spoone was an Inspiration to ALL he knew, He was a Breath of (Much needed) Fresh Air,,,, to the Evans HS Football program and taught us to respect ourselves and to take PRIDE in playing the game of Life. May his family be at peace knowing he has gone before us. And may his legacy be with All of us privileged to have been under his watchful eye. Coach Spoone personally helped me to pass "US History" Summer (1969) school to earn credit to become a Senior (1970) and play Football my final year.
Can´t believe I live only minutes from Morristown,TN.
May God Hold Bill Spoone in his Hands Forever
Jeffri Moore
January 5, 2022
So sorry for your loss. May his memory be a blessing.
Helga Brun
January 5, 2022
He was the best american Dad to me! I saw him last time in januar 2019, but also spring 2017 (picture) when he turned 85 years, and summer 2013.
He was so kind and did always decide to emphasis the light/good sides of life. I will never dorget him!
Marcia Braziel Gerber
January 5, 2022
May the many wonderful memories you have sustains you through this difficult time. God bless you all.
Jeri Adkins
January 5, 2022
Best principal in Orange County District.
Loved by staff, students and community.
It was a real pleasure to be in Guidance Department and have Bill as the principal.
Prayers and love Pat and family.
Cathy Spoone
January 5, 2022
Cathy Spoone
January 5, 2022
Cathy Spoone
January 5, 2022
Cathy Spoone
January 5, 2022
Thanksgiving 2021 with the whole family. Love you so much, Dad!
Bill and Janet Chatlos
January 5, 2022
Word is that heaven needed a great coach and now they have one!
Katrina Quinn
January 5, 2022
It's not often that you find a former high-school principal who has a legitimate fan club following. Mr. Spoone was ORHS biggest fan, he treated us all with respect and we knew he actually cared about us. He made our high school years fun. When one of our own was injured, he went in full force to help the student body raise funds for the family. He attended our reunions, home coming games, fund-raising activities for the school till he couldn't anymore.
I can still hear him say "It's great-to be- a pi-o-neer!"
He will be sorely missed and fondly remembered.
Rest in peace, Mr. Spoone.
Class of 79 -YOOOOOOOOOO!
Katrina Quinn
Bob Carr
January 5, 2022
Bill Spoone was a big-hearted man, beloved boss to my mom´s great friend Elma Harris (counselor at Oak Ridge) and kind and helpful friend to me when we were both on the campaign trail in 1996. What a guy, a remarkable and positive leader for his schools. I´m sad to see him go, but his memory will always bring a smile.
Ann Michele Sando Carlson
January 5, 2022
RIP, you made a difference in my life. You made it possible for me to finish my senior year at ORHS, class of '77. Thank you for bring our school together! You will always be remembered.
MICHAEL J CAIRNS
January 5, 2022
Hi yo!!! This Pioneer will miss one of the true greats, from roller skates to costumes for pep rallies, he made school a a lot of fun.
Tommy Conant, class of 87
January 5, 2022
He was a great man that inspired so many others and made going to school fun. You couldn´t help but smile in his presence. God Speed Mr Spoone. You will be missed.
Dee Parsons
January 5, 2022
RIP Bill a good friend in education since 1962.
It was an honor for me to have been on the selection committee naming you as the first principal of Dr. Phillips High School as the OCSB member for district four. It was an excellent choice.
Bill your educational contributions were many and long lasting.
Becky Bates Schwenke
January 4, 2022
RIP Mr. Spoone. It was an honor to have you as my principal while I was a teacher at Dr. Phillips High School, and I will always remember how fair and kind you were to all of the staff and students. You were also an amazing motivator that instilled positivity and enthusiasm into any sport or academic event in which you were involved. Sending many prayers to your family.
Julie Cairns
January 4, 2022
Class of `79 Oakridge Pioneer sending sincere condolences to Mr Spoone´s family. He made us all excited about being a Pioneer and feel like friends. His caring nature inspired many acts of kindness as the students took care of our own when tragic things happened to fellow Pioneers. I loved that he pinned his overalls back together and attended a HS reunion where he expressed the same sentiments that the students felt about him. I´m thankful for his positive influence and please know we are Bill´s Pioneers forever.
Jim-bo Damron
January 4, 2022
RIP to one of the greatest educators, Principals, and human being. Your caring for others, for your school was unmatched. You made school better for all. God bless you Mr. Spoone, a family friend of the Damron's for 50 years, and the reason we moved to Orlando. It's great to be a Pioneer! Class of 1980 ORHS (pic of you and Dick Damron (Dad) the night the Gym was officially named after you, and the Floor after Coach Damron.
Bob clark
January 4, 2022
I played football for coach Spooner at Evans high school back in 69 and 70 what a great man. Everyone looked up to him, so sad
WINEFRED MARSHALL
January 4, 2022
It was a Wonderful time to have him as a Principal and he sure knew how to bring Oak Ridge Pioneer School Spirit. Thank You God for Blessing The Class of 77 with a Loving Man.
laurie carduner-holland
January 4, 2022
You were a great principle and the zest for life! TY for the wonderful memories in HS....RI.P. and prayers to your family. class of 1980
Ariane Zeidwerg EHS `63
January 4, 2022
Our class offers heartfelt condolences to the entire family. To his wife and daughter thank you for bringing him to our class gatherings at The Springs in previous years. His attending our reunions with Coach Bozy Johnson are some highlights that will always live in our hearts and memories. We were definitely blessed to know him way back when!! May he Rest In Peace.
Denise George
January 4, 2022
We could not have asked for a better Principal than Mr Spoone
Oakridge 79
Donna Boyd
January 4, 2022
He was a great man R.I.P. Mr. Spoone you will be dearly missed. God Bless family and friends for healthy healing hearts from amazing memories.
Calvin Lingelbach
January 4, 2022
RIP Coach Spoone! I remember a lot of afternoons playing ping pong, strat-o-matic baseball, etc with Dan and the rest of the neighborhood at your house.
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