William J. “Bill” Spaulding, age 87, longtime Shelby, resident passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Sunday, December 28, 2025, at his daughter’s home, surrounded by the love of his family.
Bill was born on June 29, 1938, in Holden, West Virginia, to William and Glenna (Estep) Spaulding. He graduated from Burch High School in Mingo County, Delbarton, WV, in 1958. Shortly after graduation, Bill enlisted in the United States Army, beginning a career of faithful service that would span 22 years. During his military career, he served in Korea, Vietnam, and Germany, and worked in various positions, including in the payroll department and as a mess hall supervisor. He attained the rank of Sergeant First Class (SFC) and was honorably discharged in 1980. Following his retirement from the Army, Bill continued his strong work ethic as a full-time security guard for Schmidt Security Pro, serving at several locations throughout Richland County, including Quanex and Copperweld/Shelby Tube.
On June 14, 1958, Bill married the love of his life, Judy R. Finley, and together they shared 67 wonderful years. Their love story began in true Bill fashion—bold, playful, and unforgettable. Judy was walking past a field where Bill was playing ball when he called out, “Hey girl, are you married?” Judy shouted back, “No!” and Bill replied, “Neither am I!” He followed her down to the general store, and later, a friend told Judy that Bill had been dying to meet her. Not long after, Judy saw him again at the field where the group was playing bluegrass music. Her sister dared her to walk up and hold his hand – so she did. Bill smiled, and from that moment on, they were inseparable.
Bill was a man who loved deeply and lived with joy. He had a sweet tooth – especially for cakes of all kinds – and he was a jokester who always seemed most amused by his own punchlines, delivering them with a smirk that made everyone smile. He loved animals, enjoyed traveling, and especially treasured trips to the East Coast, including Maine, and to Opryland. Bill took pride in being organized – “everything has a place” – and he never missed Valentine’s Day. Even when he wasn’t able to shop himself, he would send one of his sons to make sure his “girls” had something special. Above all else, Bill loved his family. He also enjoyed listening to Southern Gospel music, especially the Gaither Vocal Band, and found comfort in music throughout his life.
Bill is survived by his loving wife, Judy; his children: Chandis Spaulding of Shelby, Debbie (David) Bryant of West Virginia, Kevin Spaulding of Fremont, Kyle Spaulding of Mansfield, and Darlis (James) Dahl of Perrysville; 12 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; brother: Carolos Spaulding of West Virginia; sister: Donna Shirey of Shelby; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his brother, Dallas Spaulding.
Family and friends are welcome on Saturday, January 3, 2026 from 9 -10 am at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, where funeral services will immediately follow at 10 a.m. Pastor Jamie Terry will officiate. Military honors will be conducted by the Richland County Joint Veterans Burial Detail with burial following in Oakland Cemetery, Shelby. Memorial contributions may be made to Providence Church, 1122 Grace Street, Mansfield, OH 44905.
Condolences may be left on the funeral home’s website at PenwellFuneralHome.com or on its Facebook page.
Funeral Home: Penwell Funeral Home
Website: PenwellFuneralHome.com