Allan Ward Spear Sr.

Allan Spear, 98, of Gainesville, Florida, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2025, at Haven–E.T. York Hospice Care Center, surrounded by his loving family. Born at home in Steubenville, Ohio, on September 22, 1927, to Raymond and Elfreada Spear, Allan lived a long and full life marked by hard work, devotion, and love for his family and community.

After graduating from Weirton High School in Weirton, WV, Allan proudly served his country in the United States Navy, enlisting on June 30, 1945, and serving during World War II as a Seaman First Class. For his honorable service, he received the Victory Medal, the American Area Campaign Medal, and the Asiatic Area Campaign Medal. Upon returning home, he attended Steubenville Business College before pursuing a career as a brick mason.

Allan joined the International Union of Bricklayers and Stone Masons in 1946 as an apprentice and received his Journeyman’s card in 1949. In 1953, he moved his family to Gainesville, Florida, where he became the Business Agent of the Bricklayer and Stone Mason, Plaster and Tile Setter’s Union from 1956 to 1960. He later worked for Doug Bishop Masonry before founding his own company, Allan Spear Masonry.

Throughout his career, Allan took great pride in his craft. His work can be seen across Gainesville and at the University of Florida—including laying the first brick at Shands Hospital and contributing to the VA Hospital. After his first retirement, Allan returned to work with the company he founded, that was proudly owned and operated by his grandson, Allan Spear III, where he was affectionately known as “Granddad” by all the employees. He finally retired for good at the age of 90.

Allan was a passionate golfer and longtime member of the Gainesville Golf and Country Club. He was an avid Gator fan and active member of the Gainesville Quarterback Club. He also served as Captain of the Gainesville High School Quarterback Club in 1968 and remained on the board until 1976, continuing to support fundraising efforts long after his children graduated. Allan was a Den Master for the Cub Scouts at Kirby Smith Elementary School and a dedicated member of the RT Schaffer Masonic Lodge #350 for more than 75 years. He was also active in the Gainesville Shriners Club, Morocco Temple in Jacksonville, Scottish Rite of Ocala, and the Elks Lodge #990 of Gainesville.

Faith was a cornerstone of Allan’s life. He was baptized in 1939 at the age of 12 and remained a lifelong member of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). At the First Christian Church of Gainesville, which he helped build along with its fellowship hall, he served as deacon, moderator, and Sunday school teacher for many years.

Allan was married to the love of his life, Beverly Spear, for 51 wonderful years. Together they shared a beautiful family and many cherished memories. Allan is survived by his children: Allan Spear II (Sylvia), Nancy Spear Sherouse (Leonard), Robert Johnston (Rhonda), Karen Johnston Conner (Chip DuMais), and Bruce Johnston; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Elfreada Spear, his brother Frank Spear, and his sister Ellen Rae Reese.

Allan will be remembered for his unwavering faith, dedication to his craft, love for his family, and his generous spirit. His legacy lives on in the community he helped build—both in brick and in heart.

A funeral service for Allan Spear Sr. will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025, at Milam Funeral and Cremation Services in Gainesville. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by the service at 12:00 p.m. Entombment will take place at Forest Meadows Cemetery Central immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Allan’s memory to Haven–E.T. York Hospice Care Center. https://havenhospice.com/donate

Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.