Paul Spears

Paul D. Spears, 79, of Jackson passed away Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, at home, holding the hand of his love of 57 years.

He was born June 4, 1932, in Bell City, Mo., to Irvin L. and Ida Mae Brown Spears. He and Shelby June Mann were married Dec. 24, 1954, at Bell City.

After graduating from Bell City High School in 1951, Paul served in the U.S. Air Force and served in Korea during the Korean conflict. He was honorably discharged in October 1954.

Survivors include his loving wife, Shelby of the home; a son, Alan D. Spears and wife Cheryl of Jefferson City, Mo.; a daughter, Paula J. Martin and husband Billy of Jackson; a sister, Dixie Wheeler of Springfield, Mo.; five grandchildren, Sarah Ray and husband Bryce of Kansas City, Mo., Tyler Martin of Jackson, Joe Spears of Jefferson City, Megan Martin of Jackson and Emily Spears of Jefferson City; several generations of nieces and nephews, along with many other relatives. Friends were very important to Paul, and many were as close as family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and two sisters.

Paul was a member of Bell City General Baptist Church and later in life he transferred his membership to First General Baptist Church in Advance, Mo. He worked in a number of different jobs during his life, including truck driver and salesman. However, he was primarily involved in the construction of homes for families throughout the Southeast Missouri area.

Paul was always on the lookout for the perfect place to build a home, and his family takes comfort in the knowledge that he is now waiting for them in his heavenly home.

Friends may call from 4:30 to 8 p.m. today at Morgan Funeral Home in Advance.

The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Ray Placher officiating. Burial will be in Pleasant Grove Cemetery near Bell City.

Memorial contributions may be given to the veterans charity of the giver's choice or the Stoddard County Children's Home.