Bill Spinosa, a pioneering LGBTQ+ community leader and founding president of the Gay Men's Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF), passed away suddenly on November 1, 2025, at the age of 67. Bill helped launch GMCSF in 2010 and dedicated over 15 years to nurturing its mission to inspire audiences, open minds, and change hearts through music. His unwavering passion and leadership made him a beloved pillar of South Florida's LGBTQ+ arts community and cemented a legacy of activism and song. 

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Bill built a dynamic early career in retail and personal development, rising quickly through Bloomingdale's and later serving as a seminar leader with Landmark Worldwide. He went on to launch a successful consulting firm in South Florida, guiding medical and dental professionals in leadership and efficiency. His talent for coaching and connecting with people laid the groundwork for his later success in building community through music and service. 

After moving to Fort Lauderdale, Bill channeled his passion for music and equality into what became the Gay Men's Chorus of South Florida. In 2009, when a group of singers sought to form a new chorus, Bill was among the visionaries who met to chart a path forward. By September 2010, the GMCSF was incorporated, and Bill stepped up as the fledgling chorus's first Chorus President. From day one, he and the original officers rolled up their sleeves – dividing day-to-day responsibilities, recruiting volunteers, and managing operations – to get the organization off the ground. Bill was part of the original group that helped the chorus navigate its earliest rehearsals, secured nonprofit status, and put on its debut concert in December that year, marking "the beginning of a new chapter in LGBTQ+ arts in South Florida." 

As founding president from 2010 through 2014, Bill helped GMCSF establish its mission and a strong foundation of governance and community engagement. "He helped lead the formation of GMCSF, guiding the organization from its earliest rehearsals through incorporation and rapid growth," said Kerry Waldee, Board Chair. "Under his leadership, the chorus…grew into a visible and respected cultural voice in South Florida's LGBTQ+ arts landscape." Bill was instrumental in instilling the values that still define the chorus. He emphasized transparency, integrity, and inclusivity, fostering a sense of "chosen family" among members. "Bill led by example and instilled values that became part of our culture…he wanted us to be a family—connected, supportive, and proud of what we created together," recalls Tony Corrente, a longtime chorus member and past president. 

"Bill loved this Chorus. He was its champion and an advocate for creating a space filled with kindness, nurturing, and love," wrote Jonathan Sanz, GMCSF's current president, in a message to members announcing the loss. "He dedicated every single day to the Chorus… The Chorus meant everything to Bill." Under his vigilant care, GMCSF not only survived challenges but continued to expand its artistic reach and community impact. "GMCSF is Bill's legacy to the world," Jonathan affirmed gratefully. In chorus rehearsals and performances, an empty white stool is placed on stage to honor members who have passed – a tradition of remembrance that Bill himself upheld for others, and that now poignantly honors him. 

His legacy lives on through the Bill Spinosa Distinguished Service Award, which bears his name and honors chorus members whose service echoes his profound commitment and vision. Known for his selfless leadership and passion for uplifting others, Bill was a force for change both within the chorus and across the LGBTQ+ community. Whether on stage, in church, or among friends, he brought people together with heart and harmony, leaving a lasting imprint on South Florida's cultural and spiritual life. 

Bill is survived by his beloved husband, Frank Molano, with whom he shared over 25 years of love, music, and partnership. He leaves behind cherished family in New York and Florida, and a chosen family of friends, chorus members, and mentees whose lives he deeply touched. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 20, at 2pm at the United Church of Christ in Fort Lauderdale.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to GMCSF or UCC Fort Lauderdale in honor of a man whose life resonated with harmony, leadership, and love. 

Donate in Bill's memory: http://bit.ly/gmcsf_donate.