William Leroy “Bill” Spencer

William Leroy "Bill" Spencer passed away on June 23, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on January 16, 1940, in Fresno, California, to Thelma Spencer Day and Charles Lowell Spencer, Bill was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He spent his early years in Fresno, where he graduated from Fresno High School, setting enduring track and cross-country records, and later earned his degree in journalism from Fresno State University.

During his college years, Bill joined the U.S. Forestry Service, where he was stationed in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. There, he was responsible for forest surveying and wildfire suppression. At the same time, he contributed as a columnist for the Fresno Bee newspaper.

Following graduation, Bill relocated to Memphis, Tennessee, to take on the role of Lead Editor for several agricultural publications, including Cotton Grower and Cotton International. Over more than four decades, he became a well-respected figure in the cotton industry, traveling to over 30 countries and leaving a legacy of published work still cited today.

While living in Memphis, Bill met and married Emily Jean Dixon. The couple made their home in Hickory Withe, Tennessee. Emily and Bill built their own home, under the guidance of Emily’s father, where they resided for 54 years. They set up a farm where they raised goats, pigs, horses, and grew blueberries. A devoted family man, Bill especially cherished time spent with his grandson, Carl. He was an avid sports fan—particularly of University of Southern California football, and was active in the local running community, frequently competing in 5Ks, 10Ks, and biathlons. He was also a longtime member of First Baptist Church Fisherville. Bill loved hiking, camping, and bonfires. Any time Bill could be outside, he would, no matter the weather, and he especially enjoyed a good bowl of ice cream.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Emily; his daughter, Amy Schultz; his son-in-law, Kevin Schultz; and his grandson, Carl. He was preceded in death by his parents, his stepfather, Max Day; and his brother, Steven Spencer.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on July 2, 2025 at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Hickory Withe, Tennessee with Reverend Jeff James officiating.