Joseph F. Spears, 79, World War II Veteran
Joseph F. Spears, age 79 of Lorain, died on Saturday, march 10, 2001 at Amherst Manor Retirement Community, where he was a resident for the past 4 months, following a lengthy illness.He was born on March 26, 1921 in Rogersville, Tennessee, moving to Lorain 34 years ago.
He served in the United States Army during World War II in Italy. He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, Purple Heart, European African Middle Eastern Service medal with four bronze stars.
He was employed as a waste collector for Browning Ferris Industries for 25 years, retiring in 1981, prior to this he worked for a private waste collection company.
He enjoyed playing cards, gardening and listening to country and western music.
He is survived by his sons: Andrew, of Elyria, Dale of Houston TX, daughters: Dorothy "Dottie" Newman of Lorain, in which he made his home with, Connie Burwell, and Donna Womack both of Houston TX, 8 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, sisters: Virgie Parker of Greenville, Tennessee and Allie Hensley of Rogersville, Tennessee.
He was preceded in death by his parents: Andrew & Pearl (nee Arnold) Spears, his son: Ricky E. Spears, three brothers: Charles, Roy and Carlson Spears, and sister: Ruth Edson.
The family will receive friends on Monday, March 12, 2001 from 7-9 p.m. in the Dovin Funeral Home, 2701 Elyria Avenue, Lorain. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, March 13, 2001 at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home. Rev. Don Daniel, associate pastor at Beacon Baptist Church, Lorain will officiate. Burial will follow in Crownhill Cemetery, Amherst.