Willis Spears, age 83, of Summertown, TN passed away Sunday, September 17, 2023, at his residence surrounded by family. He was a native of Summertown, TN, a retired lineworker from Murray Ohio after 43 years, and a member of the Musicians Union in Nashville. He was the lead singer with the Nashville Grass. Mr. Spears served his country honorably in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Era.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Minnie Poag Spears; one sister, Margaret Stephens; and six brothers, Frank Spears, Albert Spears, Alvin Spears, Vincent Spears, Lloyd Spears, and Roy Spears.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jane Spears of Summertown, TN; one daughter, Melissa Staff (Philip) of Columbia, TN; one son, Greg Spears (Tina) of the Barnesville Community; one sister, Vernie Spears of Summertown, TN; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.
Arrangements are being handled by Neal Funeral Home, 231 N. Military Avenue, Lawrenceburg, Tennessee. The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at Neal Funeral Home. Funeral services will be conducted at Neal Funeral Home at 11:00 AM Thursday, September 21, 2023, with Jeff Vanlandingham officiating. Interment will follow at Barnesville Cemetery in Summertown, TN with full military honors. The family suggests memorials be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
