William J. Sponaugle Jr., veteran, owned Dewey Beach Club
William J. Sponaugle Jr., 77, affectionately known as ‘Spoon,’ peacefully passed away Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025. Born Aug. 24, 1947, in Franklin, W. Va., William spent his formative years in the town until he was 10. His family then relocated to Sudlersville, Md., and lived there for two years before moving to Rehoboth Beach. He later graduated from Rehoboth High School in 1965, then dedicated four years of service to the U.S. Air Force.
Throughout a distinguished career spanning five decades, William immersed himself in the world of hospitality, particularly excelling in restaurant service and bar management. He leaves behind a profound legacy, having worked at establishments such as the Seahorse, Rusty Rudder, and Bethany Blues, eventually becoming the proud owner of the Dewey Beach Club for 20 years. Known for his warm demeanor and exceptional bartending skills, William garnered a loyal local following that cherished his company.
In his leisure time, William found solace in pursuits that reflected his diverse interests. An avid golfer, trivia enthusiast, and dedicated sports aficionado, he derived immense joy from supporting Baltimore teams, especially the Baltimore Orioles and the Baltimore Ravens. His inquisitive spirit led him to explore geography and history, always eager to expand his knowledge base. William also had a deep appreciation for music, particularly classic rock, and cherished trips to Harrington to witness horse races. Above all else, William exemplified a profound dedication to his family, who held a place in his heart that was immeasurable. He will be remembered for his gentle nature, unwavering intelligence, and universal kindness that endeared him to all who crossed his path.
William is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Theresa Sponaugle; loving son, Paul Sponaugle (Kiersten); cherished siblings Ruth (Sponaugle) Skoglund, Linda Sponaugle, Timothy Sponaugle (Cleta), Christopher Sponaugle (Kathleen) and Daniel Sponaugle (Christine); adored grandchildren, Owen and Kayla; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins; and a vast extended family of in-laws. He was preceded in death by his parents, William J. Sponaugle Sr. and Ellen Campbell Sponaugle; his sister, Brenda Sponaugle; and his beloved son, Stephen Sponaugle.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 18, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes. Visitation for family and friends will be from 10 to 11 a.m. A private chapel committal service will be held at Delaware Veterans Memorial Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in William’s name to the friends and family of Stephen Sponaugle, inmemoryofspoonie.org.
Visit William’s Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
