Charles Edward Spears passed away on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. He was born November 23, 1934, to Everette and Mildred Spears in Putnam County, Tennessee. His parents and two sister, Dean and Joyce, proceeded him in death. After graduating from high school in Baxter he attended Tennessee Tech University on a football scholarship where he received several honors and awards. He obtained a bachelor of science degree in health, physical education and biology and later earned his masters degree in administration and supervision. While attending Tech, he met and married his wife, Elna Rose Gaw, a native of Gainesboro, Tennessee.
After graduation he started his career in Putnam County School System teaching and coaching football and basketball. Later he coached and taught at Lincoln County High School and Huntland School. He also served as Principal at Huntland. Charles finished his career at South Jr. High in Cowan, Tennessee. He retired after more than 30 years in education.
Charles is survived by his wife, Elna, and three children, Tim (Camellia) Spears, Vicki (Steve) Lofty, Eddie (Cindy) Spears and five grandchildren – Robbie Lofty Schrock (Adam), Rebecca Lofty Woods (Nathan), Derrick Spears (Emily), Allie Spears Smith (Cole), and Keaton Spears. He also adored his great grandchildren Stella Schrock, Sadie Schrock, Camden Schrock, Cooper Schrock, Victoria Woods, Wilson Woods, Conley Smith, and Charles Banks Spears. He is also survived by brother and sister-n-law, Bob and Jean Robertson; and several nieces and nephews. His Family was the love and joy of his life. He was a wonderful and devoted Husband, Father, Papa, and G-Papa and will forever be missed.
Charles spent countless hours fishing and boating on Tims Ford Lake, was an avid woodworker, and a member of The Milk Sick Hollow Hunting Club that he shared with dear friends. He also enjoyed watching sports, especially when his grandchildren were on the court or field. He was not afraid of hard work and spent much time outdoors gardening and on afternoon walks. He and Elna enjoyed traveling after retirement.
Charles served two years in the United States Army. He attended and was a member of the Owl Hollow Church of Christ.
Visitation will be from 1-3 pm on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at Moore-Cortner Funeral Home. Funeral Services will follow at 3:00pm in the Chapel of Moore-Cortner Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Franklin Memorial Gardens.
Moore-Cortner Funeral Home, 300 First Ave NW, Winchester, TN 37398, (931)-967-2222
