I am a nurse that cared for Mr. Spellman at NYU Langone on several occasions. He was such a lovely patient who was always pleasant and happy, always kind and appreciative of the staff. We were all very sad to see him pass.

John was a good friend and mentor who gave me great personal and professional guidance over many years To paraphrase the biblical passage: He fought the good fight. He finished the race. He kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7

Growing up without a grandfather was hard. Uncle John was the closest thing me and my siblings ever had. I will always cherish the memories I have with him growing up, the Spellman handshake, cookouts at their house in Garden City, a song, a hug, a kiss. The first time I ever fished was with him. I had my Tigger fishing pole, high hopes and plenty of words of encouragement. It was never about the fish or whether we caught any, it was about being with one of my favorite people, in his favorite place. Uncle John, GP, Spell, we love you forever.

John, 'Spell' to most of his fellow Bonders, will never be forgotten by Common Bond members, for it is he who is the true founder of the group. We are forever in his debt. Prayers are being lifted up for the repose of John's soul, for Kathleen, and for the whole extended family.

Years ago when John was a pro bono lawyer for Birth Right, I remember witnessing the exchange of a newborn baby from the birth mother to the waiting adopting parents.
I stood on the sidewalk in front of the convent where I lived on a Saturday afternoon. A car pulled up and a woman handed an infant to John. Then, we went into the convent parlor, and I watched John hand the baby to the new parents. I never forgot that day.
John was a very good man.
May he rest in peace.

He caught me kissing my girlfriend at a Red light and told my religion class that from that time forward I would be called Red Light Rooster. I still laugh. Great man. You will be missed

Uncle John, you were a North Star in my life. Someone who I always tried reflecting on before making a decision. You created a strong foundation for our family to thrive and create incredible memories. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hampton Bays, Ski trips and the list goes on. You always put others before you and you lead us all to become better people. Words cannot describe what you contributed to the world but anyone who met you for even 5 minutes understood. You spoke so eloquently and with brilliant humor like it was nothing. I will miss you, remember you and honor you as long as I live. Until we meet again. 🤌🏼

John was such a remarkable gentle-man. His kindness and warm heart could be felt by all who met him in life. His smile and presence lit up a room…I am forever grateful to know him and his beautiful family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers and I know he will guide and protect you all.🙏

Prayers... (Religion class MR '73).

Mr. Spellman was an incredible person and leaves a legacy filled with love and lasting memories. I remember his magnetic personality, how he never met a stranger, and how I felt like family the first time I met him.

His love and kindness are with me today as much as they were when I was in the same room as him. I will keep him close to my heart forever.

Am sending all my prayers and comfort to all who grieve him. Love never dies. ♥️