[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 30 (Thursday, February 13, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E127]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING THE LIFE WILLIAM ``BILL'' LESTER SPRUILL, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 13, 2025

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the incredible 
life and legacy of William ``Bill'' Lester Spruill, Jr., a brilliant 
man who left us peacefully on January 18, 2025.
  Born and raised in New Haven, Bill was a lifelong public servant, 
member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church, and proud veteran who was 
exceptionally passionate and determined to make the world a better 
place for all.
  Shortly after graduating from James Hillhouse High School in 1953, 
Bill enlisted in the Marine Corps and received the honorable rank of 
Sergeant. His career after serving our country began at Pratt and 
Whitney where he worked as a machine operator.
  Bill continued his passion for serving his country by working for 
various initiatives in Connecticut's public sector. Bill was a housing 
specialist at the Redevelopment Agency, Executive Director of the 
Commission on Equal Opportunities for the City of New Haven, and 
finished his successful career as an Affirmative Action Administrator 
of the State of Connecticut's Department of Social Services. In these 
roles, he continued to fight for the greater good and helped improve 
the lives of thousands in our community and beyond.
  Even after retirement, Bill continued to work by assisting others as 
a volunteer at the Hospital of Saint Raphael's for fifteen years--this 
is just one example of how passionate Bill was to help those around 
him. Bill had a presence in this world that lifted others up, making 
everyone feel loved and supported. If you knew Bill, you would know he 
believed in serving his community and always being there.
  My heart and my prayers are with his family, loved ones, and friends, 
and I know that he will always be remembered for making Connecticut a 
better place.

                          ____________________