of Little Rock, AR
July 25, 1945 - December 12, 2025
Billy (Bill) Spann, age 80, of Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away peacefully, on Friday, December 12, 2025. He was born on July 25, 1945, in Little Rock, Arkansas but grew up in Santa Rosa, California. Bill was the second youngest of four children.
Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Family was always at the center of his life, and his greatest joy came from watching his children grow, spending time with his grandchildren, and welcoming a great-grandchild into the family.
Those who knew Bill remember his easygoing nature, humor, and playful personality. He had a way of making people feel comfortable, whether they were lifelong friends or complete strangers.
Music was an important part of Bill's life. He loved The Beatles and enjoyed playing his guitar, often filling the house with familiar songs. He also loved sports, especially watching the Razorbacks and the Little League World Series and took great pride in coaching his boys in basketball at the Boys Club and baseball at Rosedale when his children were young.
Bill served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He lost his leg in a flight-deck accident after being caught in the intake of a jet while helping save a Marine pilot aboard an aircraft carrier. After medically retiring due to complications with his leg, Bill never allowed physical limitations to slow him down. As an amputee, he continued to stay active, engaged, and joyful, often making light of his situation and refusing to let it define him.
Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife Marilyn, his mother Jessie Bowman, father Freeman Spann, and stepfather James Draper, brother Freeman Spann Jr., sisters Carol Haggard and Diane Hill, and other cherished family members. Bill is survived by his children, Billy Spann (Christy); Tim Spann (Michelle), and Kevin Spann; his grandchildren, Dylan Spann (Alissa), Savannah Spann, Josh Spann (Katelyn), Sammy Spann, and John Spann; and his great-grandchild, Ivy Spann; best friend Dellwyn Elkins; and many friends who were blessed to share life with him.
The family is deeply grateful for the many years they were given with Bill and for the memories that will continue to live on. He will be remembered for his kindness, humor, steady presence, and the love he showed through a life well lived.
This will be a comes as you are casual service
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8 Condolence(s)
Brenda Rowland
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Bill was a kind and kind person. My husband and Bill were very good friends back in the 70's. Life happens and just lost contact with him. I pray for him and his family for peace and comfort.
Amy Brock-Devine
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
It was an honor to know Billy through the life of his son Timmy, who respected him so much. The respect and love shown toward him spoke volumes about the kind of man he was.
Billy served our country with honor, loved his children and grandchildren deeply, and leaves behind a legacy that continues through the family he raised. His life clearly mattered, and his influence will be felt for generations.
This loss is deeply felt, and our hearts are with the family during this time. We are grateful that God is sovereign, kind, and just, and we trust Him with every chapter of Billy's story. May the Lord bring comfort, peace, and strength to all who loved him, and may his family feel surrounded by care, honor, and hope in the days ahead.
Misty Pruett
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Bill was always a wonderful, fun person to be around. I'll cherish the memories I have with him, Marylyn, and their children. I loved visiting them. He'd get all us kids in the game room and turn off the lights and scare us to death just about. He will be greatly missed.
Barry & Anita Strange & Bryleigh
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
We are so deeply sorry for your loss! May God comfort you all in knowing he is with his heavenly family now!
Sammy Spann
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
I always loved visiting Papa's house and spending the night with my brothers and cousins. I'm gonna miss the times he would make us guess different ways he would tickle us, like the flying buddy-wuddy and the gutchy-gutchy.
Leonard & Jessie Ford
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Peace and Blessings, always remember GOD is the God of All Comfort: and Jesus Will Pull You Through If You Can Stand The Pull!
Marsha Jewell (Elkins)
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Bill was always a joy to be around with his upbeat, never give up, kind and loving, way he tackled life. He was part of our lives for many years seeming more like family. Bill's legacy lives on in his wonderful children and grands and the wonderful memories. Prayers to Bill's family and friends for comfort and peace. Always in our hearts. 🙏🏼'"
Susan Elkins Larson
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Bill was always part of the family to us. He will forever be loved and remembered for the great guy he was and how he always left us smiling. Love and prayers for peace to his family. '"
Susan and family