Celebration of Life Planned for Longtime UNC Stadium Director

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James Spurling, the longtime director of Kenan Stadium and Kenan Football Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, passed away on February 5th at the age of 68. A public Celebration of Life will be held at Carmichael Arena on the UNC campus on February 15th, with a North Carolina State Highway Patrol motorcade escorting Spurling's body and family to the event. Spurling's sister said thousands are expected to attend the service, which is open to the public.

Why it matters

Spurling was a beloved figure in the Chapel Hill community, having spent 40 years working at UNC and operating a local business for 23 years. As the longtime director of Kenan Stadium and Kenan Football Center, he played a key role in the university's athletic programs and events.

The details

Spurling became the director of Kenan Stadium and Kenan Football Center in 2006, after spending decades working in Chapel Hill. He was also a lifetime honorary member of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, and the patrol will provide a motorcade to escort his body and family to the Celebration of Life service.

• The Celebration of Life will be held on February 15, 2026 at 3 p.m.
• Spurling's burial will take place on February 16, 2026 at 2 p.m. in Creedmoor, North Carolina.

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