Wilford W. Spradlin, MD
Wilford W. Spradlin, MD, former Chair of Psychiatry at UVA, passed away on March 30, 2026, at the age of 93.
Dr. Spradlin was an alumnus of the University of Virginia (BA, 1953) and the School of Medicine (1957). After completing his internship at the Royal Victoria Hospital at McGill University and his psychiatry residency at Duke University—where he later joined the faculty—he went on to chair the Department of Psychiatry at West Virginia University in 1967. There, he built a strong department with a particular emphasis on medical student and resident education and helped establish an early medicine–psychiatry training pathway.
In 1978, Dr. Spradlin returned to UVA as Chair of Psychiatry. During his tenure, he advanced an integrated vision of psychiatry and medicine and, in collaboration with Edward Hook, MD, helped establish one of the first formal medicine–psychiatry training programs. He led the department with a focus on education, innovation, and mentorship, and remained deeply committed to developing future leaders in the field. He stepped down as Chair in 1992 and was succeeded by Randolph Canterbury, MD, whom he mentored.
Dr. Spradlin’s academic interests evolved over time from neurophysiology research to broader explorations of the mind, including its psychological and spiritual dimensions. He co-authored several books with Patricia B. Porterfield, including Search for Certainty. He remained intellectually engaged throughout his life.
He was a thoughtful and humble leader, and a deeply valued mentor to generations of medical students and residents, many of whom have gone on to leadership roles across the country. He was devoted to his family, including his wife, Mary Lee, who preceded him in death, and his children, Katie and Charles.
Dr. Spradlin was a meaningful contributor to his field, to the School of Medicine, and to the many students and residents he mentored. We extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Contributions to the Wilford W. Spradlin Professorship in Psychiatric Medicine can be made online: https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/20881/donations/new?a=6799434. Select “Spradlin Professorship” in the designation box under “School of Medicine.”
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