Theodore Anthony Spears

Born August 9,1932, in Steubenville, Ohio to Theodore R. and Bessie Stone Spears, Theodore (Ted) Anthony Spears, or Tony, as he was called by family, was the sixth of eight children, all of whom preceded him in homegoing: Calvin Madden, Ernestine M. Edwards (Madden), Betty Jane Bickerstaff (Spears), Burma K. Beck (Spears), Nancy J. Smith (Spears), Guy A. Spears, and Hugo S. Spears.

The family left Steubenville and moved to Cleveland where they became members of St. Paul United Methodist Church in the Miles Heights District. Tony attended John Adams High School and was a proud graduate of Central State University. In addition to his formal schooling, Tony studied and played the piano for most of his life. Playing his piano brought him great joy and he loved to share his talent with everyone.

For many, many years Ted gained his spiritual sustenance from Olivet Institutional Baptist Church where he rejoiced singing in the men's choir. His passion for music led him to sing with Wings Over Jordan Choir. Most recently he joined the fellowship of St. James A.M.E. Church.

Theodore held many positions in life. He taught handicapped children, modeled as a senior and retired from the Water Department for the City of Cleveland.

He was preceded in death by wives Frances Weathers and Betty French-Spears and her son, Michael Wise.

Left to cherish his memory are his children by marriage: Edward, Sylvia, Mary, Gene and Richard and their loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and very devoted friends.