Longtime Wilmington Resident Donald Norman Spradlin Dies at 91

The devoted husband, father, and grandfather was known for his dry sense of humor and love of motorcycles, trains, and woodworking.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:36pm

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A softly focused, atmospheric photograph depicting the warm, inviting interior of a cozy living room, conceptually representing the tranquil life and legacy of Donald Norman Spradlin.The peaceful passing of a beloved Wilmington resident reflects the quiet dignity of a life well-lived.Wilmington Today

Donald Norman Spradlin, a 91-year-old resident of Wilmington, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2026. Spradlin worked for General Motors for 35 years as a model maker before retiring in 1986 and moving to Wilmington with his wife of nearly 70 years, Elsie. He was known for his love of motorcycles, trains, woodworking, and shortwave radio, as well as his dry sense of humor that earned him the nickname 'trouble' among his many friends at Myrtle Grove Baptist Church.

Why it matters

Spradlin's passing marks the end of an era for a longtime Wilmington resident who was deeply involved in his local community and church. His life story reflects the changing demographics and interests of retirees who have made the Wilmington area their home in recent decades.

The details

Spradlin is survived by his wife Elsie, son Steve Spradlin (Sue), daughter Charlotte Hatfield (Richard), and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was known for his many hobbies, including motorcycles, trains, woodworking, and building a home theater. Spradlin was also an active member of Myrtle Grove Baptist Church, where he had many friends.

  • Spradlin passed away peacefully on March 27, 2026.
  • A Celebration of Life will be held on April 11, 2026 at 11:00am at Myrtle Grove Baptist Church.

The players

Donald Norman Spradlin

A 91-year-old resident of Wilmington, North Carolina who worked for General Motors for 35 years as a model maker before retiring in 1986 and moving to Wilmington with his wife Elsie.

Elsie Spradlin

Donald Norman Spradlin's wife of nearly 70 years.

Steve Spradlin

Donald Norman Spradlin's son.

Charlotte Hatfield

Donald Norman Spradlin's daughter.

Myrtle Grove Baptist Church

The church in Wilmington, North Carolina where Donald Norman Spradlin was an active member and had many friends.

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The takeaway

Donald Norman Spradlin's life story reflects the changing demographics and interests of retirees who have made the Wilmington area their home in recent decades, as he was deeply involved in his local community and church and pursued a variety of hobbies in his retirement.