Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

William Spivey, “Bill”, age 77, long time resident of Bainbridge, Ga., and now Kissimmee, Fla., passed away peacefully on Wednesday afternoon.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife of 44 years, Ruthe Spivey; his children, David Baskette (Courtney), Andrew Baskette (Jonelle), Tracy Spivey Miletti (Dean), and Russell Spivey (Kristin); and his beloved grandchildren, Alex, Cooper, Sophia, Libby, Ada, Gavin, Vivian, and Samuel.  He is also survived by his brother Sid Voils and his sisters Becky Funderburk and Patty McLeod.  He is preceded in death by his parents, James Russell and Lona Spivey as well as Tommy and Marthare Maxwell. We must also make mention of his prize dog, Riley.

While Bill was born in Moultrie, GA, he moved several times throughout his life to be closest to the ones he loved.  He planted his roots for nearly 20 years in Bainbridge, GA to raise his family in a beautiful small town, but then as his children flew from his and Ruthe’s nest to raise families of their own, they lovingly followed to be able to attend birthdays, Grandparents’ Days, baseball games, etc.  Bill and Ruthe made a constant effort to be near family.

Of all titles Bill had in his life, the one that he treasured most was that of “Paw Paw”.  Paw Paw hung his grandchildren’s sports photos on his refrigerator and homemade cards on his bedroom walls. He whisked toddlers away into restaurant parking lots when they got fussy, and he regularly picked up kids from school. Paw Paw welcomed grandkids to be dropped off to him and Ruthe anytime, whether it be for an afternoon, or even for weeks.  He would drive half a day for only a meal with his kids and grandkids, and then turn around and drive back.  He went with them on walks and to playgrounds, he bought parent-unapproved junk foods, and was a backyard fun aficionado- fashioning sprinklers into trampolines or ropes into trees.

The family will be holding a small private ceremony, but they sincerely appreciate all of the love and kind words that they have received during this time.

Bryant Funeral Home, located at 105 N. Florida Street, is assisting the family with local arrangements. (229-246-3321)