From The Tribune staff reports
SPRINGVILLE — A retired Springville High School principal passed away after a two-year battle with a rare sarcoma.
Virgil Winslett died on Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2020. Winslett retired from education in September of this year. He was an educator for 25 years and was principal of Springville High School from 2014 to 2020.
St. Clair County Superintendent Mike Howard said although the loss is great, it is comforting to know Winslett is no longer in pain.
“He was a fine person, an incredible administrator and had a great impact on the students and staff of Springville,” Howard said. “He will be forever missed.”
The Springville community rallied around Winslett during his cancer battle, holding fundraisers and honoring Winslett on several occasions. An Inspiration Garden at the school is also named after Winslett.
His wife, Kathryn Sprayberry Winslett, posted on Facebook that even in his last hours, Winslett fought for his life. She thanked the community for support and prayers and said she will be setting up a scholarship fund in his memory.
The funeral for Winslett will be held on Sunday, Dec. 6 at Crosspoint Church. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. with funeral services to follow at 2 p.m.