David Griffin Spruill Sr

Dr. David Griffin Spruill, Sr., went to be with the Lord November 4, 2016, after a brief illness surrounded by family. He was born August 4, 1929 in Tyrrell Co., NC, and was the son of Robert Leslie and Margaret Elizabeth (Griffin) Spruill. He was preceded in death by his loving and devoted first wife of 50 years, Iris Jane (Gregg) Spruill, two brothers and five sisters. He is survived by his wife Bernice (McElheney) Spruill: five children, Elizabeth Simmons, Danielsville; David (Connie) Spruill, Colbert; Lori (Dan) Giles, Colbert; Jennifer (Steve) Quiggle, Clemmons, NC; Steven (Danielle) Spruill, Haslet, TX; brother William Walton (Bill) Spruill, Louisburg, NC; sister Alethia Nell McDaniel, Palm Harbor, FL; step children, Terrell (Carol) McElheney, Buckhead, Denise Maddox, Eatonton; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; four step grandchildren; five step great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Dr. Spruill was a Korean War Veteran serving as a Staff Sergeant. Following his service, he earned his BS and MS in Animal Science from N.C. State and earned his PhD in Nutrition from the University of Kentucky. Dr. Spruill worked for the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service and was instrumental in developing North Carolina's swine industry, which resulted in his induction into the North Carolina Pork Producers Hall of Fame. Following his tenure with the NC Extension Service he continued his career as the Animal and Dairy Sciences Department Head and Division Chair at the University of Georgia. He enjoyed interacting with students during his time at UGA. He was active in the American Society of Animal Science serving on the Board and as Southern Section President.
After retirement from UGA he became an avid golfer. He was active in his church and was on numerous committees. His faith and family were very important to him. He enjoyed spending time with family, friends, and attending his Thursday night Men's Bible Study. He exemplified unconditional love and will be greatly missed.
The funeral service will be held at Tuckston United Methodist Church, Athens, GA on Sunday, November 6, 2016 at 3PM with interment in the church cemetery. The visitation will be held Sunday, November 6, 2016 from 1 until 3pm prior to the service at Tuckston United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tuckston United Methodist Church.
Lord & Stephens East is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com