Obituary

Earl Spears

September 1, 1939 - September 3, 2023

Earl Spears, age 84 and a resident of Franklinton, passed away peacefully at his home Sunday September 2, 2023 after a lengthy illness, surrounded by his family. He was a graduate of Mount Hermon School and worked in construction tying steel for many years. Earl was involved with the building of the original Causeway Bridge, something he was always proud of. He later bought the family farm, and was a successful dairyman, winning many quality and production awards, before selling his herd in 2008. He then raised beef cattle and gardened. Earl often planted large acres of watermelons and peas to sell, as well as other vegetables. He always planted enough to feed his entire family and share with all his neighbors. Earl maintained 4 rabbit pens on his property and had his own group of high quality beagles. People came from all over the state to run their dogs and he enjoyed meeting the families over and over. Earl was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Franklinton. He cherished the time spent with his family and friends and was always a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Survived by: Daughter and Son in law: Shandle and Mark Waskom; Son: Steven Spears; Grandchildren: Brittney and William Bell, Amber Waskom, Hollie Waskom; Great-grandchildren: Dawson Bell, Gavin Bell, Allison Bell; Sister and Brother in law: Violonia and Bruce Edwards; Sisters in law and Brothers in law: Saralyn Spears, Kenny and Cheryl Bankston, Frank O’Brien; Special Friend: Pam Baker; Also numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends

He was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years Phala Bankston Spears, parents T.C. and Ida Mae Spears, brother D.C. Spears, sister Jeannie Spears O’Brien, father in law and mother in law Clyde and Hollie Bankston, brother in law and sister in law Lyndell and Brenda Bankston.

Visitation will be at Crain Funeral Home Thursday September 7th from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel at 2:00 pm Thursday with Rev. Joey Miller and Rev. Cody Warren officiating. Burial will follow in Ellis Cemetery.

The family wishes to express a sincere thank you to his sitters for their loving support over the last year Virginia, Aaron, Maggie, Phyllis, Becky, Candace

Pallbearers: Mike Spears, Don Spears, Bruce Edwards, Patrick Simmons, Alan Broadway, Aaron Wilson, Bryan McElveen

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