Henning Juel Spilling, Jr

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Captain Henning Juel Spilling Jr., loved and cherished by all who knew him. Captain Henning, or simply “Captain”, passed peacefully on March 13, 2025 at the age of 76.

Henning was preceded in death by his loving wife, Leighlove Caylor Spilling, his daughter Katie Carter, grandson Henning J. Spilling IV, his stepdaughters Maryiah Spilling and Seasun Carter, and his parents Barbara Jones Spilling and Henning Juel Spilling Sr. Henning leaves behind his loving daughter Erika (Joe) Spilling Drouin and son Henning (Melissa) Juel Spilling III. He is also survived by his grandchildren Camron Spilling, Nathan, Daniel, Austin, and Cora Drouin and Gage, Lexi and Rosemary Carter; great-grandchildren, Henning V, Freya, and Maryiah Spilling; his brothers Robert (Cinda) Spilling and John (Marilynn) Spilling and their families, and many other extended family and friends.

Born in 1948 in New Orleans, Louisiana, Henning lived a remarkable life. He left high school to become a professional diver and, soon after, proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Henning demonstrated extraordinary courage and heroism and was awarded a Purple Heart, a Bronze Star with oak leaf cluster, and other commendations for his bravery and valor. Following his military service he continued to serve with distinction, becoming the youngest ship pilot in the Panama Canal where he further showcased his leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence. He went on to captain a supply ship in Alaska, supplying islands and other ships in the Bering Sea before retiring to the mountains of East Tennessee with his loving wife Leighlove.

Henning was deeply admired for his unwavering dedication to family and friends, as well as for his warm, generous spirit. Among the happiest and proudest moments of his life were the births of his children—Henning III, Erika, and Katie—and his marriage to his beloved Leighlove, which was celebrated on a beautiful beach in Florida and lasted for 25 years until her passing in 2022.

Throughout his life, Henning made a positive and often profound impact on those fortunate enough to know him. His remarkable leadership was evident from a young age, as he inspired family, friends, colleagues, and crew alike to strive toward their fullest potential. Henning had an extraordinary gift for bringing people together, always embracing life fully and ensuring everyone around him shared in the joy. He generously extended a helping hand to anyone in need, becoming a dependable source of support and kindness. Henning leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, compassion, and boundless love.

A memorial service honoring Henning's life is Friday, April 4 at 2:00pm at St Agatha’s Episcopal Church
with burial following at Magnolia Cemetery.  The family invites everyone to Eagle Springs Country Club at 5:00pm to have dinner, share stories, dance, and celebrate the Captain.

 In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Henning's memory to Trinity Episcopal Church, PO Box 55, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.