Obituary of James B. Spears

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James “Jim” B. Spears of Nashville, TN on December 17, 2023. Jim was a beloved husband, father, brother, son, and friend to many people. After 35 years with AT&T, Jim worked as a lobbyist in the Tennessee State legislature where he was instrumental in helping to pass important legislative bills for his clients. He will be remembered for his love and care of his family AND his dogs; his love of racing motorcycles and touring across all 50 states on a road bike with his friends Bo and Bill; for razzing his friends; for his love of travel; and for his love of watching the Cooking Channel, enjoying fine food and cooking. He found great joy in watching nature and in the solitude of his lake house.

Jim Spears entered the Marine Corps after graduating from High School in Murfreesboro in the summer of 1969 at the height of the Vietnam War. He joined the Marine Corp to enter Marine Recon but was prevented by an earlier knee injury.  During his early training his roommate was Artimus Pyle, drummer for Lynyrd Skynyrd. Jim graduated number one in his Recruit Training Class and given his high scores was offered a spot in Officer Candidate School but refused the placement. He was initially trained in artillery but later was assigned to Marine Corps Aviation where he was stationed in South Carolina. He left the marines in 1971 as a corporal.

Jim is survived by his wife, Carrie Spears; his mother, Doris Spears; his siblings, Johnny Spears, Sue Spears, and Joey (Veda) Spears; his children, Dylan Spears and Sara (Terry) Rose, and Taylor (Lauren) and Paige Butler; grandchildren Isabella Spears, Tyler and Colton Rose, and Walker Butler; and his many friends and extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the American Heart Association or the Jason Foundation (https://jasonfoundation.com).

The Memorial Service will be held from 2-4pm at Brentwood United Methodist Church on Thursday, December 21, 2023.

Arrangements by Sellars Funeral Home at Mt. Juliet, 2229 N. Mt. Juliet Road, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122, 615-758-5459, obituary line 615-758-8818, www.sellarsfuneralservices.com