William Hutson Spencer

     William Hutson Spencer, age 77, passed away peacefully at his home in Powell, TN on Saturday, October 10, 2026. Bill was born March 7, 1949, at Bolling Air Force Base in Washington, DC., the son of Herbert T. and Edna Hutson Spencer. Because his dad was in the Air Force, the family moved to different places in the U.S. and Japan. They settled in Redlands, CA where he attended high school, swam and played water polo. Bill went to Wabash College in Indiana and Arizona State University, where he earned a B.S. in anthropology. He worked as an underwater archaeologist for the State of Florida, then moved to Louisiana where he met his wife, Debbie Woodiel. He worked as an archaeologist, scuba instructor, and then for Home Depot, which led him to Knoxville. One of Bill’s greatest enjoyments was his family, especially his two daughters. He was often cheering Lauren on at her swim meets and watching Kate dance at her recitals. In retirement, he pursued nature photography, particularly in the southwest U.S., and enjoyed traveling with his family.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, Herb and Edna. Bill is survived by his wife, Debbie; daughters, Lauren and Kate; brother, Tom and sister-in-law, Karen; nephews, James P. and Connor Spencer; and cousins, Jane Siekman Spencer and Ann Siekman and spouse, Roger; and also, his brothers-in-law, Jack and Chris Woodiel and their spouses, Pam and Fran; and their families.

An online obituary may be viewed, and condolences made at www.mynattfh.com