J. T. Morriss & Son Funeral Homes

Spain, William E. "Rock"

Sunday, January 18, 2009

William Edward “Rock” Spain, Sr., 87, of Petersburg, passed away Sunday January 18, 2009, at Southside Regional Medical Center. He was predeceased by his parents, Richard Samuel & Hattie Felts Spain and his loving wife Patsy Wayne Spain. He was the former owner operator of Washington Street Exxon Station in Petersburg for 39 years, after retiring, he was employed by Ukrop’s Grocery for 12, years. Rock was a veteran of the United States Army, served during WWII, and played baseball on USO Baseball teams with Joe DiMaggio. He is survived by his son William E. Spain, Jr. & wife Susan of Petersburg, grandson; Damon Anthony Spain of Richmond, sister; Constance Thomas of Prince George, numerous nieces & nephews. A graveside service will be held in Blandford Cemetery January 20, 2009 at 11:00 am with Rev Robert Livesay of Oakland Baptist Church officiating. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Crater Community Hospice 840 W. Roslyn Rd. Suite E., Colonial Heights, VA. 23834 Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com.

W.E., please accept mine and Len's heartfelt condolences on the loss of Rock. They broke the mold when they made him. Always a smile, a joke, the sweetest man in the world! I will miss calling and talking to him. He oh so enjoyed talking about the "ole days". It was both an honor and a privilege for me to call him "my boyfriend". I will miss him dearly.

Hold on to your memories and let them guide you and our family through this time of sadness.

Love, Bonnie

Posted by: Bonnie Cutter at January 20, 2009 02:43 PM

W.E.,

Ginny just called me with the news about Rock's passing. I understand what it's like to lose your father and my heartfelt sympathy goes out to you. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family.

Posted by: Milt Spain at January 19, 2009 06:24 PM

w.e. , im so sorry for the loss of your dad. i dont know if you remember,but i worked for him in 1964. he was great to me and always would seem interested in what i had going on. i hope your grief is short.

Posted by: fletcher harrison at January 19, 2009 05:37 PM

I remember when your father had the Exxon station when we were in school. I am a member of the class of 67' and send you my condolences and prayers during your time of bereavement. I know what its like to lose daddy.

Posted by: Brenda Brown Williams at January 19, 2009 04:59 PM

Tony & Mrs. Thomas,
Sorry to hear about your uncle & brother...I met him at Colonial Shell & he was always funny & in the best of moods..He was a great man. My thoughts & prayers are with you both & your family..

Posted by: Robyn Bodenhamer (Mallett) at January 19, 2009 11:41 AM