Obituary of James Edward Spear

James “Jim” Edward Spear, age 84 of Venice, FL passed away August 27^th, 2022. Jim was born to Paul and Thelma Spear on October 30^th, 1937, in Ashland, KY where he lived until 1975. Jim was a loving husband, father, and grandfather as well as a proud Navy veteran. Jim graduated from the University of Kentucky with a bachelor’s degree in education. He held a Master of Education in guidance and counseling from the University of Arizona and completed his post masters work at Morehead State University in education administration. Jim was a coach, leader, and mentor at Venice High School where he served as Assistant Principal for 25 years until his retirement in June 2000. He contributed to the Venice football program by scouting the high school team’s opposition and coaching the junior varsity team. He was a die-hard fan who was seen on the sidelines of every home game. As Venice High School’s assistant principal, Jim oversaw the athletic programs, guided the junior class to graduation and maintained the day-to-day operation of the campus. It has been said of Jim’s dedication to VHS, “If the school doors were open, Jim was there”. Jim was also and Eagle Scout, lifelong member of the Elks Club, and a member of Colonial Baptist Church

Jim is preceded in death by his father, Paul Spear; brother, Richard Spear; mother, Thelma Spear who passed away August 10^th, 2022, at 103 years old.

Jim will be missed by his wife Linda Spear; daughter Susan (Blair) Waller; grandchildren Jared, Jacob, and Julie all of Venice, FL; and niece Sherri Kimble of Tucson, AZ.

Visitation will be held at Colonial Baptist Church on Saturday September 10^th at 10am funeral service will follow at 11am. Jim will be laid to rest at Venice Memorial Gardens on Monday September 12^th at 10am. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Colonial Baptist Church Building Fund, Colonial Baptist Church, 2400 Taylor Ranch Trail, Venice, FL 34293.

Gone too soon...but forever in our hearts