Cover for Jimmie Richard Spear's Obituary

Jimmie Richard Spear

Jul 10, 1950 — Jun 28, 2026

Corbin, Kentucky

Jimmie Richard Spear, age 75, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, June 28, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and dear friends.

Born on July 10, 1950, in Springfield, Ohio, Jimmie lived a life marked by faith, kindness, and devotion to those he loved. In his humble and generous way, Jim touched the lives of many throughout his lifetime. He was a loyal and loving husband to his wife, Anna, and a devoted father to their son, Shawn. His greatest joy was caring for his family, serving others, and living out his faith through quiet acts of kindness and compassion.

Jim was a proud veteran who served his country with honor in both the United States Army and the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He was a lifetime member of DAV Chapter 158 in Keavy, Kentucky, as well as AMVETS. The discipline, dedication, and strong work ethic he developed through his military service carried over into his career as a heavy equipment operator with General Electric, where he was respected for his skill, dependability, and commitment. Following his retirement, Jim relocated to Corbin, Kentucky, where he embraced the community and built many lasting friendships.

Those who knew Jim best will remember him for his commitment to his faith and the love he had for his family. His hobbies of attending church and spending quality time with his family were never considered obligations, but rather the joy of his life.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Anna, and their son, Shawn; his brothers, Ronnie Spear and David Spear (Kay); his pastor, Daniel Wyatt (Marlena), and their children, including his special friend, Ella Hibbard; his special friend, Dewayne Wyatt; his caregiver and special friends, Sharon Bryant and Philip Bryant; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will dearly miss him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and June Spear; his brother, Frank Spear; his parents-in-law, Gertrude and Paul McDaniel; his sisters-in-law, Margie McDaniel and Sue Ballard; his brothers-in-law, Gerald McDaniel and Bob Ballard; and Melvin and Lorene Cox, who held a special place in Jim's heart and were like parents-in-law to him. Jim's legacy of generosity and love will continue to inspire and guide his family and friends.

Visitation for Jimmie Spear will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home. His funeral service will begin at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with Rev. Daniel Wyatt, Rev. Philip Bryant, and Bro. Brandon Azbill officiating. Military honors will be presented by DAV Post 158, Keavy

Arrangements are entrusted to Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home, where messages of condolence may be written to the family at www.vankirkgrisellfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Upcoming Services

Visitation

Thursday, July 2, 2026

4:00 - 6:00 pm (Eastern time)

Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home

607 Master St., Corbin, KY 40701

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Funeral Service

Thursday, July 2, 2026

Starts at 6:00 pm (Eastern time)

Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home

607 Master St., Corbin, KY 40701

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

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