The following biographical sketch was updated in October 2002, and in May 2010.
William Micajah Spencer, III was born in Birmingham, Alabama. His parents were
William Micajah Spencer, Jr. and Margaret Woodward Evins Spencer.
Following grade school Bill Spencer entered Baylor Military Academy at
Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he graduated with honors in mathematics. After
completion of his studies at Baylor, Bill Spencer enrolled at the University of the
South in Sewanee, Tennessee. This institution of higher learning awarded him a
Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry. As a result of his excellent grades, Bill
Spencer was initiated into Phi Beta Kappa honorary fraternity.
Mr. Spencer and his wife, Virginia Beeland Spencer, are the parents of four
children and the grandparents of seven.
During World War II, Bill Spencer served his country for four years in the United
States Marine Corps. He was separated from the United States Military with the
rank of captain.
Upon his return to civilian life, Bill Spencer immediately interested himself in the
economic, civic, cultural and educational life of his community and state.
Mr. Spencer was the prime mover in establishing Motion Industries, Inc. which
became one of the more successful business enterprises in the state. This business
created an environment which was a model for many companies, in terms of
employee relations and the fulfillment of community obligation.
Bill Spencer served his community and state well in civic affairs - the Chamber
of Commerce, the Festival of Arts, the United Way. During his term as Chairman of
the Board of Trustees of the Birmingham Museum of Art, the museum was
renovated and expanded so that it is now considered one of the finest regional art
museums in the United States. He has also served on the Board of Directors of
Alabama Great Southern Railroad, AmSouth Bank, B.E. & K. Inc., Southern
Research Institute and Robertson Banking Company, Mead Corporation and Genuine Parts Co., Inc.
Bill Spencer worshiped at St. Like's Episcopal Church in Birmingham.
