Patrolman Bennett T. Spradley

Monday, March 30, 2015 - 9:35am

Nacogdoches, Texas (KETK) — An East Texas man honored his great uncle's legacy this weekend by portraying him at The Living History of Oak Grove Cemetery event.

Ty Spradley dressed up like his great uncle Nacogdoches Police Patrolman Bennett Spradley.

Patrolman Spradley was killed in the line of duty and was featured in the tour. Patrolman Spradley was assigned at East Main Street and North Mound Street to direct traffic during the Nacogdoches Christmas parade on December 2, 1948. After the parade, there was a disturbance at a small clothing resale shop near where Patrolman Spradley was stationed. He was summoned and the man who was causing problems shot Patrolman Spradley with a shotgun, according to the Nacogdoches Police Department. Patrolman Spradley was able to return two rounds, but it did not affect the shooter. The officer was taken to Memorial Hospital where he died from his injuries. The shooter was taken to court and recevied a three-year sentence for the murder.

Ty Spradley's wife, Elizabeth, played Patrolman Spradley's widow, Winnie Spradley Stack.

The Nacogdoches Police Department wants to thank Ty and Elizabeth Spradley and the friends of Historic Nacogdoches, Inc. for their wonderful job.

Ernest Berry Spradley
3rd cousin to Bennett Spradley

November 2, 2015