A DEATH
HAS OCCURRED
Joan Lea Spears Terry, 88, died peacefully at her home in Dallas, GA, on January 28 2023, after a short illness. Joan was a loving mother and always had a kind word for everyone. Joan was an artist, a poet, enjoyed writing short stories, and an avid fan of intricate jigsaw puzzles. After her husband of 30 years, Richard H Spears, passed in 1980, Joan began her college career and earned an Associates degree from Raymond Walters College.
Joan was preceded in death by her spouse and father of their seven children, Richard H Spears, and also by second husband, Robert Terry, and by grandson, Kevin Messer.
Joan is survived by her seven children, Debbie Messer Matthews (Tom, recently deceased), Clifford Spears, Richard Spears (Devena), David Spears (Patsy), Mary Dufek (Steve), Raymond Spears (Bridget), Daniel Spears (Devin). Joan has sixteen grandchildren, and fifteen great-grandchildren.
There will be a memorial service and burial of remains at Arlington Memorial Gardens, 2145 Compton Rd, Cincinnati OH 45231, on Monday, February 6, at 1:00pm
There was a previous funeral service held at St. Clair of Assisi Catholic Church in Acworth, GA
Monday, February 6, 2023 at 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
The Arlington Memorial Garden Lakeside Chapel
Monday, February 6, 2023 at 2:00 PM
The Arlington Memorial Gardens
“It has been a privilege sharing so much joy with Joan. Whether it be the trips, books, games, poems, stories, or the good fortune she saw in my palm, they will all be forever etched in my mind. She was a remarkable lady who loved her family and people. She has created a tangible legacy for her grandchildren through her stories, poems, paintings, and drawings; they have loving, lasting remembrances of their grandmother. My daughter Ashton’s comment “Rest in Paradise Grandma” is perfect. I have no doubt that she has made numberous friends, written several poems about her heavenly journey, played a few hands of cards, completed a few puzzles, and reconnected with both Richard and Bob. I will love you forever….Rhea”
02/05/2023
“Many friends have said to me; Joan is everywhere! Mom gave away hundreds of her printed booklets to friends and family. She was a joyful person who saw the good in people. She read 2 to 3 books weekly and going to the local Library was one of her favorite jaunts. She loved going to Water Aerobics 3 x’s a week. I will miss my Mother dearly and I was blessed to have her living in my GA home for the past 15 years. Deb”
02/02/2023
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