Spruill, John

John Thomas Spruill, Sr. (1924–2016) was a community leader, civil rights activist, and devoted family man. Born in Haverstraw, New York, and educated in Congers, Pratt Institute, and the E. Wellington Foltz School of Music, he developed both technical skills and a gifted baritone voice. Raised in Calvary Baptist Church—founded by his parents—he remained deeply involved throughout his life, serving as a choir member and church clerk. After marrying Deborah “Stella” Carter in 1954, the couple settled in Englewood, New Jersey, where John broke racial barriers as the first Black supervisor of power plants in the Eastern Division of the New York Central Railroad before becoming a realtor. Together, John and Deborah were active civil rights advocates and community leaders. John served on—and twice chaired—the Englewood Board of Health and was involved in numerous civic and fraternal organizations. His work helped establish senior housing, dental hygiene initiatives, and Bergen County’s first sickle cell screening and counseling program. He also played a key role in the legal fight to desegregate Englewood Public Schools. John was widely honored for his service, including recognition from the Bergen County NAACP and a “Man of the Year” award, with additional citations celebrating his 90th birthday.

Joe Giardelli, Staff Photographer Bergen Record

Bergen Record, January 27, 1972

Rightsholder Being Researched