William A. Spinelli

1953 – 2026

William A. Spinelli “Bill”, age 72, rode his Harley through heaven’s gate on Sunday, March 22, 2026, after a massive stroke.  He was surrounded by many of his loving care givers on his last day.  Bill was born and lived his life in Rome, NY.  He was a public servant having worked for the City of Rome, DPW for many years until his retirement.  Bill’s final act of kindness was as an organ and tissue donor.

In his earlier years, Bill loved riding with his many friends.  Though he never married and had no children, he remained close with his parents and sister.  In November of 2023, after a stroke, he was sent to a nursing home for rehab where he remained until June 2025, feeling alone and depressed.  Eventually strangers, a guardian and caregivers were able to get him back to his home where he was able to live the last nine months of his life.  Caregivers were able to meaningfully communicate with Bill (he became deaf late in life and did not know sign) through written words. He could read, he was a thinker and talker.    He was a bright, thoughtful, and knowledgeable man who loved rock and roll.  He was also a pretty funny guy and kept his eyes on the NY Yankees and Buffalo Bills. He knew Jesus.                                                                 

Despite various health issues, Bill was given new life after being able to return to his house.  He shared life stories, was involved in his own medical and social decisions, spent hours enjoying the outside and checking on his Harley.  He loved his rides around the city, trips to restaurants, shopping, reading the news, walks and playing with his new kitty, Maysie.

Bill was predeceased by his parents William and Marjorie (Reid) Spinelli and sister, Linda McGuire.  He spoke of his nephew Scott Sperlik, Virginia and cousin, Frank Spinelli of Rome.   Theresa Girouard (Guardian) is thankful to each Angel who cared for Bill and gave him his chance to return and remain in his home.  Bill knew their names, Alexis, Amanda, Annette, Betty, Carolyn, Christine, Crystal, Dina, Heather, Hilary, JoAnn, Kathy, Kelly, Lynda, Trinity and his buddy Tess Snow.   Thanks also to community members who showed him many acts of kindness.    It does take a village.

Bill wanted people to know that he was very thankful to be able to get back home, he almost gave up.  He had no family to help him, but those who did help became his family. Bill would say “with God all things are possible”.

A Christian gathering to show respect for Bill will be held at the Nicholas J. Bush Funeral Home, Inc., 7751 Merrick Rd., Rome, NY, on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 5:00 pm.  Burial will take place beside his parents in St. John’s the Baptist Cemetery, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers anyone wishing to honor Bill while helping others may donate to: Christian Motorcycle Association , CNY SonRise  #429  c/o The Bedfords , 29 Delta Ave.  Hastings, NY 13076.

To offer online condolences, please visit www.njbushfuneralhome.com