Deacon Eddie Spears of 200 Watson Circle, Sycamore, Georgia died Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Tift Regional Hospital in Tifton, Georgia.

The funeral service will be held Sunday, July 21, 2024 at 4:00 p.m., in the sanctuary of Greater St. Luke Baptist Church in Ashburn Georgia.

Everyone entering the funeral home for visitations or services is required to wear a mask and to practice social distancing. A mask must be worn throughout the stay. You must supply your own mask.

Eddie Spears, born in Lowndes County, Valdosta, Georgia, lived a life of denim, dirt, and devotion. As an avid fisherman, passionate huntsman, and dedicated farmer, Eddie's life was a testament to simplicity, hard work, and a love for the land.

Eddie attended Eureka High School, graduating with the Class of 1970. His talent for music shone through as he played the tuba sousaphone for the Eureka Tigers Marching Band from seventh grade onwards. He sang in a gospel group called, "Steps of Joy" of Ashburn, Georgia alongside his eldest brother, Albert Jr. In his early years, Eddie also attended Bible seminary, deepening his faith and understanding of the Word. He found joy in the harmonies of the Pilgrim Jubilees, Gospel Keynotes, Mighty Clouds of Joy, Slim and the Supreme Angels, and the Violinaires. Two songs that held special meaning for him were "Walk Around Heaven" and "I've Been in the Storm Too Long" by the Mighty Clouds of Joy.

Eddie was known for his intelligence, wit, and wisdom, qualities that made him seem like a savvy political enthusiast. He even listened to Rush Limbaugh, not out of partisanship, but to gain a broader perspective by understanding different viewpoints.

For over 40 years, Eddie worked at NeSmith Farms in Ashburn, Georgia, where he poured his heart into farming. He also owned his own farm located on Ireland Road in Turner County, Georgia, known for his exceptional crops, especially his famous Black Diamond watermelons. Although their deep green rind often made people overlook them, inside was the heart of the watermelon, dripping with sugar and sweetness. This serves as a beautiful reminder of the verse  Eddie held dear from 1 Samuel 16:7, "For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart." Eddie's life and his Black Diamond watermelons remind us that it's not what's on the outside that matters, but the heart within.

A devoted member of Pine Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Arabi, Georgia, under the leadership of the late Reverend Dan Jones since the 1960. Eddie served as the Vice-Chairman of the deacon board. He sought solace and communion with God in moments of isolation, often retreating to Pine Hill during life's storms.

Eddie was predeceased by his parents, the late Albert Brother Spears and Catherine Jackson Spears, his wife, the late Margaret Crockett Spears, his brother James Holton, sister Dorothy Ann Spears, nephew Jalin Jones,  great-great niece Kensly Kamille Yancey, and in-laws Sally Spears and Louise Spears.

He is survived by his children: Allen (Keetah) Spears of Ashburn, Georgia; Antonio Spears (Irene) of Hahira, Georgia; Trumaine (Tonya) Spears of Ashburn, Georgia; Brandon (Angie) Spears of Ashburn, Georgia; and Latara "Toot" Spears of   Ashburn, Georgia. Eddie leaves behind ten beloved grandchildren.

His siblings include Deacon Albert Spears, Jr. of Ashburn, Georgia; Reverend Robert L. Spears (Reverend Vera) of Ashburn, Georgia; Reverend William Spears (Marvis) of Albany, Georgia; Reverend Larry Spears (Lula) of Arabi, Georgia; Chairman Deacon Leon Spears (Minister Kathy) of Cordele, Georgia; Minister Leroy Spears (Alisia) of Loganville, Georgia; Donald Spears (Minister Melissa) of Arabi, Georgia; Cynthia S. Clark (Willie) of Arabi, Georgia; Calvin Spears (Lucinda) of Dallas, Georgia; and Maybelline Spears of Arabi, Georgia. An aunt, Carrie Lou Spears of Atlanta, Georgia. He is also remembered fondly by his brother-in-law, Edward (Fannie) Crockett of West Palm Beach, Florida, and his special friend, Ms. Vicki Truelove.

Eddie's legacy is one of simplicity, warmth, and unwavering faith. His spirit lives on in the fields he tended, the waters he fished, and the hearts of all who knew him. He wore his love for his family, faith, and farming like his favorite pair of worn overalls—with pride, comfort, and a sense of purpose.