William Henry Speas, Sr

January 21, 1929 - January 5, 2018

William Henry Speas, Sr., 88, of Greensboro, passed away on January 5, 2018. Mr. Speas was born on January 21, 1929 in Forsyth County, North Carolina to the late William Worth and Vertie Hepler Speas. After graduating from high school he joined the United States Navy and later the United States Coast Guard where he served in the World War II, Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Mr. Speas retired from the military after 28 years of service. He married Irene Joanna Koc Speas on December 30, 1960. Mr. Speas moved with his family from Pasadena, Maryland to Greensboro 38 years ago. He was an avid gardner and well known around town as someone who could fix anything. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son John Speas and sister Lillian Tennant. He is survived by his wife Irene, daughter Shirley Marie Smith (William) and son William H. Speas, Jr. (Annette) both of Greensboro, , grandchildren Clara Lituski, Rene Wright, Joseph Wright, III, John Speas, Jr., Kyle Speas and Emily Speas, great grandchildren Justin Jr., Cheyanne, Robert and Lilah. A visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Friday, January 12, and from 1:00 to 2:00 pm Saturday, January 13 in the Fleegle and Helfenbein Funeral Home. The service will follow at 2:00 pm in the funeral home. Interment is in the Greensboro Cemetery. The family suggests contributions in Mr. Speas name to be made to the St. Judes Children's Hospital. To share memories and condolences please visit www.fleegleandhelfenbein.com