Jerry Spears Funeral Home Obituaries

About Jerry Spears Funeral Home

Jerry Spears Funeral Home, located at 2693 W Broad Street, Columbus, OH, 43204, has been a pillar of the community for many years, providing compassionate and professional funeral services to families in their time of need. With a long history of dedication and commitment to excellence, Jerry Spears Funeral Home has earned a reputation as one of the most trusted and respected funeral homes in the area.

A Legacy of Compassion and Care

At Jerry Spears Funeral Home, the staff understands that losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences a family can face. That's why they are dedicated to providing personalized and compassionate care to each and every family they serve. From the moment you walk through their doors, you'll be greeted with warmth and understanding, and their team will work tirelessly to ensure that every detail of your loved one's farewell is handled with dignity and respect.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Donald Baker - May 11, 1946 - April 22, 2022

Departed: 04/22/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Donald Baker, age 75, passed away at his Columbus residence on April 22, 2022. Preceded in death by brother, Jeffrey Baker. Survived by wife of 27 years, Susan Baker; son, Jeffrey Michael Baker;  brother,  Ronald Baker; sister, Barbara Comer and niece, Rebecca Sturgill (Benjamin). Private arrangements  have been completed at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME with CREMATORY.

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Patricia Brunner - October 11, 1930 - April 21, 2022

Departed: 04/21/2022 (Columbus)

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Edgel McClelland - January 16, 1941 - April 20, 2022

Departed: 04/20/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Edgel McClelland, age 81, passed away on Wednesday, April 20, 2022 at Ashford of Grove City. He was a lifetime union brick layer and he was a race car enthusiast. Preceded in death by, wife, Carolyn. Survived by, brother in law, Robert (Kaye) Colvin and sister, Penny (Mike) McCarty, numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Private family burial will be at Sunset Cemetery. Arrangements have been completed with JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME, 2693 W. Broad St

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Mary Evelyn Bernans - August 17, 1952 - April 19, 2022

Departed: 04/19/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Mary Evelyn Bernans, age 69, passed away on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at her residence in Hilliard, OH. A bright personality who loved her family very much, Mom was loved by everyone, she would light up the room with her smile, laughter and was always dancing around. She loved crocheting and knitting sweaters, animals, scarfs and hats and she would give them away to her loved ones and to the wonderful nurses who would come and visit with her. Attended Saint Brendan the Navigator Catholic Church. Preceded in death by, parents, Carl and Clara Richart. Survived by, loving husband of 50 years, Ed, daughters, Paula (Mark) Benson and Olivia (Matt) Marcoccia, grandchildren, Sarah, Rebecca, Emily, Daniel, A.J., Liam, Ben, Abbie and Abe, sister, Cora Bickel, niece, Sally (Scott) Hardy, she loved spending time with all of her family as well as her best friends, Terri (Jim) Lietz and Debbie Presutti, numerous other family and friends. Friends may call at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME of HILLIARD, 5471 Frazell Rd., Monday, April 25, 2022 from 10 am-12 noon where service will follow at 12 noon. Interment Saint Joseph Cemetery

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Jewell Christy - January 18, 1946 - April 18, 2022

Departed: 04/18/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Jewell D. Christy, age 76, a woman who loved her family and always was helping out everyone that she could, passed away on Monday, April 18, 2022 at Doctor's Hospital West. She was an avid reader and loved to do jigsaw puzzles, a hobby that was easily passed down to her children.  Preceded in death by, husband, Morton, parents, John Delong and Pearl Baker, sisters, Waueka Delong, Willa Mae "Billie" Gustin and Vonda Sue Maynard, brother, Roger Baker. Survived by, children, Jerri (Dan) Turner, Paul (Jean) Price, Billy (Shonda) Price, Teresa (William) Smith, Bobby (Samantha) Bills and Tammy Combs, grandchildren, Danny (Renea), Connie, Andrew, Krista, Bret (Kristi), Caleb, Brett, Olivia and Aiden, great grandchildren, Derick, Caroline, Brenna, Alexis and Mariah, brothers, Oakley Delong, Bobby Joe Delong and Charles (Robin) Baker II, sisters, Pat Cumbo and Phyllis Maynard, numerous other family and friends. Friends may call at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME, 2693 W. Broad St., Thursday, April 21, 2022 from 11AM - 1 PM where service will follow at 1 PM. Pastor Rick Baumberger officiating. Interment Fernwood Cemetery. Contributions in Jewell's memory can be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org

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Lester McCants - May 04, 1986 - April 15, 2022

Departed: 04/15/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Lester L. McCants, age 35, passed away on Friday, April 15, 2022 at his residence. He worked in home health care and he loved to play basketball, especially for his team known as 4-Deep. Survived by, son, King McCants, daughter, Londyn McCants, mother, Dianne McCants, father, Charles (Pamela) Crawford, brothers and sister, Darius (Tiane) McCants, Tiffany Burns and Martees Almond, special friend of the family, Antonio Gabbert, mentor, Victor Dandridge,  numerous nieces, nephews, other family and friends. Friends may call at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME, 2693 W. Broad St., Thursday, April 28, 2022 from 4-8 PM where service will be held 10 AM Friday, April 29, 2022. Interment Evergreen Cemetery.

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Joan Syx - August 15, 1939 - April 15, 2022

Departed: 04/15/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Joan D. Syx, age 82, a woman who loved her family very much, passed away on Friday, April 15, 2022 at Winchester Care and Rehabilitation Center. She was employed at General Motors, Federal Glass, Roach Tee Shirts and finally retired from Medex. Joan was a cheerleading coach and volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club and she loved to play bingo and yard sell. Preceded in death by, father, George Allen, mother, Grethal (Robert) Cosgrove, brother, Jimmy Allen, nephew, Jack Collinsworth Jr., niece, Dee Byas.  Survived by, sons, Ray (Sherry) Syx and Robert (Lisa) Syx, grandchildren, Richard (Brooke) Buzzard, Tabetha Syx, Mallory (Nate)  Palmer, Matthew (Katie) Syx and Courtney (James) Elliott, great grandchildren, Cameron, Jaidyn, Dayne, Dawson, Areiona, Brian, Aurora, Tobias, Isabella, Eleanor, Jade and Ciara, sister, Evelyn (Jim) Dolan, brother, Jack (Melinda) Collinsworth, sister in law, Barbara Allen, numerous other family and friends. Friends may call at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME, 2693 W. Broad St., Thursday, April 21, 2022 from 4-7 PM where service will be held 10 AM Friday, April 22, 2022. Pastor John Palmer officiating. Interment Green Lawn Cemetery.

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Lou Ann Kinney - March 22, 1961 - April 14, 2022

Departed: 04/14/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Lou Ann Kinney, age 61, passed away at her Columbus residence on April 14, 2022. She was a kind-hearted woman, she was always helping others. Lou Ann was a real social butterfly, especially on Facebook. She also loved animals. Preceded in death by parents, Paul Murray and Pauline Homan, and son, Mitchell Hidey. Survived by husband, Richard Kinney; son, Trevor Hidey; sister, Patti Scarito; brother, Robert Homan; brother-in-law, Rick Kinney, sister-in-law, Marci Osborne; many nieces and nephews. Arrangements completed at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME with CREMATORY, 2693 W. Broad St.

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Helen Hannon - June 30, 1924 - April 13, 2022

Departed: 04/13/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Helen Louise Hannon, age 97, passed away, peacefully, Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at Feridean Commons, Westerville, OH. Please check back later for complete obituary. Private family arrangements have been completed with JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME of HILLIARD, 5471 Frazell Rd.

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Glenda Large - April 21, 1956 - April 13, 2022

Departed: 04/13/2022 (Columbus)

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Karen Kinder - October 02, 1948 - April 13, 2022

Departed: 04/13/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Karen Sue Kinder, age 72, a loving wife, mother and grandmother, passed away, unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at her residence. Preceded in death by, husband, Samuel. Survived by, children, Kelly (Rick) McGivern and Michael (Marie-Claire) Wilson, grandchildren, Hannah McGivern, Samuel, Alex, Natalya, Joshua and Noah Wilson, great grandchildren, Maybel and Evie, sister, Liz Drone, numerous other family and friends. There will be a gathering of friends and family on Thursday, April 28th from 5-7pm at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME of HILLIARD, 5471 Frazell Rd.

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Jorge Mendoza - December 03, 1969 - April 11, 2022

Departed: 04/11/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Jorge L. Mendoza, age 52, passed away on Monday, April 11, 2022 at his residence. Jorge loved his family more than anything and he always enjoyed spending time with them. He worked in construction and he was known as the "Saw Master." He was an avid sports fan, especially soccer, and his favorite team was Rayados de Monterrey.  Survived by, wife, Shelley, children, Vanessa (Johnny) Miller, Jorge (Mo) Mendoza Jr., Trintan Mendoza, Destinee Wilson, Maximus Mendoza, Nadia Mendoza, ZaeCario Mendoza, Arianna and Savannah, grandchildren, Aubrey, Alayna, Carter, Kyrie, Braxton, Jorge "Luis", Benicio, Thiago, Beanz and Fendi, parents, Jose and Rosa Mendoza, sisters, Angelica (Gerardo) Correa and Alejandra (Martin) Hernandez, brother, Gerardo (Lilia) Mendoza, numerous other family and friends. Friends may call at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME of HILLIARD, 5471 Frazell Rd., Wednesday, April 20, 2022 from 4-8 PM where service will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, April 21, 2022. Interment Alton Cemetery.

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Yvonne Cheesebrew - January 19, 1947 - April 10, 2022

Departed: 04/10/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Yvonne E. Cheesebrew, age 75, passed away on Sunday, April 10, 2022 at Mount Carmel Grove City Hospital. She was always a very happy person, never met anyone that didn't like her and Yvonne adored her family. Preceded in death by, son, Michael, parents, Wendell and Mable Snodgrass, sisters, Karen and Linda. Survived by, husband, Darrel, sons, Mark (Misty) Cheesebrew and Keith Cheesebrew, grandchildren, Michael, Peyton, Darian, Trinity, Austin, Brandon and Hailey, 4 great grandchildren, sister, Susie (Glen), numerous other family and friends. Friends may call at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME, 2693 W. Broad St., Friday, April 15, 2022 from 5-8 PM where service will be held 10 AM Saturday, April 16, 2022. Pastor Jeremy Harper officiating. Interment Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.

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Timothy Hand Sr - May 29, 1956 - April 10, 2022

Departed: 04/10/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Timothy Hand Sr. age 65 passed away Sunday April 10, 2022 at his residence. Retired from Bron Shoe after roughly 15 years of service. Preceded in death by parents: Gerald and Mary Hand. Survived by son, Timothy L. Hand Jr; brother, Mike Hand; nephew, Michael Patrick Hand; nieces, Tara and Angie; friends: Dave (Jane) Greenburg, Steven Smith, and Lisa Steward; pet dog, Cool Hand Luke. Arrangements completed at Jerry Spears Funeral Home with Crematory 2693 W. Broad St.

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Evan Thomas - April 23, 1965 - April 08, 2022

Departed: 04/08/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Evan A. Thomas, age 56, passed away on Friday, April 8, 2022 at his residence. He retired from Construction. Evan was an avid fisherman, hunter and outdoorsman. He also used to be a drummer and was very talented, playing in numerous bands over the years throughout Columbus. Preceded in death by, father, William Thomas. Survived by, mother, Mona Thomas, sister, Desiree Thomas, brother, Hayward Thomas, niece, Miranda Lenihan, aunt, Fanny Lewis, numerous other family and friends. Friends may call at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME, 2693 W. Broad St., Thursday, April 14, 2022 from 4-7 PM. Graveside service and interment, 11:00 AM Friday, April 15, 2022 at Sunset Cemetery.

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Kathy Bakenhaster - August 13, 1950 - April 08, 2022

Departed: 04/08/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Kathy Bakenhaster, 71, passed away April 8, 2022 at her home in St. Petersburg, Florida. Always an Ohioan regardless of her address, she was born and educated in Columbus, then made her home in Shelby until moving to Florida for her retirement. She practiced medicine in Ontario, Ohio for three decades, serving patients from Mansfield and across Richland County. She was preceded in death by her brother Paul Haering and her mother Mildred Haering, both of whom she missed dearly. Kathy is survived by her husband Daniel Bakenhaster, their sons, Micah and Benjamin Bakenhaster, and her grandchild, Charlotte Bakenhaster. Kathy's passion for her work was surpassed only by her love of family including her niece and nephew, Lisa Hobbs and Scott Haering, who made her a happy grand aunt four times over. She adored her dogs (and grand-dogs), and had a fondness for her gardens, though not for the snakes who lived there. Kathy grew up in a place where high achievement was not necessarily expected from its sons and daughters and in a time when girls rarely considered becoming physicians. Her intellect shone bright, but overwhelmingly, it was her energy, tenacity, and confidence that propelled her forward. All of her days were spent fighting for her family and patients. Rest was for others, idleness was abstract, and a victory only marked the start of the next struggle. The final enemy was not hers to defeat, and her fight ended after a long illness that took many things from her, but never her fearsome spirit. That spirit allowed her to ascend from humble beginnings to a life of accomplishment and purpose, protecting others from illness and injury during their happiest moments and darkest hours. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 5-7pm on Thursday, April 14 at Anderson-McQueen Funeral Home, 2201 Dr. M.L. King Street North, St. Petersburg, FL . Friends may call at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME with CREMATORY, 2693 W. Broad St., Saturday, April 23, 2022 from 2-4 PM where service will follow at 4 PM. Inurnment Greenlawn Cemetery.

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Fran (Franken) Marlowe - July 18, 1930 - April 06, 2022

Departed: 04/06/2022 (Columbus)

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Diana Davis - November 07, 1956 - April 04, 2022

Departed: 04/04/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Diana (Rock) Davis, age 65, passed away on Monday, April 4, 2022 at her residence. She loved her family very much, as well as her extensive collection of Elvis records and her favorite hobby, Facebook. Many years ago, she used to enjoy working benefit shows for West Central School for children with MRDD. Preceded in death by, husband, Ralph Davis, parents, William and Betty Rock, grandson, Gabriel Workman. Survived by, children, Amy Young, Angel (Larry) Maier, Ralph "Pooh" Davis and Ashley Davis, grandchildren, Courtney, Kaitlyn, Logan, Jacob, Aaron, Brigette, Emmaleigh, Brooklynn and Kylinn, great grandchildren, Kylee, Steffen and Karter, sister, Pamela Rock, brothers, William (Brenda) Rock and Buddy Rock, numerous other family and friends. Friends may call at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME, 2693 W. Broad St., Sunday, April 10, 2022 from 2-5 PM where service will be held 11 AM Monday, April 11, 2022. Pastor Tim Lee officiating. Interment Green Lawn Cemetery.

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Marcella Irene Townsend - October 07, 1942 - April 04, 2022

Departed: 04/04/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Marcella Irene Townsend, age 79, passed away April 4, 2022 at her Columbus residence. Arrangements completed at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME with CREMATORY.

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Anna Comer - March 03, 1968 - April 04, 2022

Departed: 04/04/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Anna Comer, age 54, passed away on Monday, April 4, 2022 at Ohio State Medical Center. She was surrounded by her loved ones when she took her last breath. Preceded in death by, mother, Caroline Groom, daughter, Shawna Gray. Survived by, children, Caroline Gray, Madilyn Comer and Michelle Comer, grandchildren, Miguel Oviedo and Jon Oviedo, brother, Ralph Groom, aunts, uncles as well as numerous other family and friends. There will be a gathering of friends at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME with CREMATORY, 2693 W. Broad St., Saturday, April 16, 2022 from 2-4 PM where memorial service will follow at 4 PM.

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Cathleen Groves - October 01, 1955 - March 31, 2022

Departed: 03/31/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Cathleen Groves, age 66, passed away March 31, 2022 at Dublin Methodist Hospital. Private family arrangements have been completed at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME with CREMATORY, 2693 West Broad St, Columbus, Ohio.

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Charles Eugene Parker - April 06, 1948 - March 30, 2022

Departed: 03/30/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Charles Eugene Parker, age 73, passed away on March 30, 2022 at Doctors Hospital West. He retired from the City of Columbus Parks and Recreation Department. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. Preceded in death by parents, Juanita and Elo Wages; wife, Paullette Ellen Parker; sons in law, Peter Brown and Mickey Smith. Survived by children: Shawn Brown, Tracy Smith and Michele (Chuck) Parker; grandchildren: Trachele "Kay-C", Tranell "Nell", Treanna and Samantha; great grandchildren: Geneva, Gianna, Loki, Journey, DeVante and Isaiah; and cousin, Ava. There will be a gathering of friends and family Thursday, April 7th from 6-8pm at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME with CREMATORY, 2693 W. Broad St.

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Amur Drennen - January 27, 1970 - March 29, 2022

Departed: 03/29/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Amur Q. Drennen, age 52, a man who loved spending time with his family, passed away on Tuesday, March 29, 2022 at the Ohio State University Hospital. 1988 graduate of West High School. Retired truck driver with Swift. Veteran United States Navy. He was formerly the owner/operator of the Stage Line Pizza and Video shop in St Ignatius, Montana. Amur was a huge Ohio State Buckeyes and Pittsburgh Steelers fan and he loved all sports in general, traveling and gambling. Preceded in death by, father, Richard Lewis, maternal grandparents, Eliza and Gordon Drennen. Survived by, daughters, Bra'lyne Jones and Bella Drennen, mother, Sandra Drennen, sister, Nikki Cardwell, nephew, Demontae Greer, a host of family and friends. Friends may call at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME, 2693 W. Broad St., Friday, April 15, 2022 from 10 AM-12 Noon where service will follow at 12 Noon. Interment Green Lawn Cemetery.

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Rand Yauch - July 25, 1960 - March 28, 2022

Departed: 03/28/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Rand Allen Yauch, age 61 of Chillicothe, Ohio passed away March 28, 2022. He was a 1978 graduate of Columbus Central High School and later attended Columbus College of Art and Design. Preceded in death by parents: Edward and Shirly Yauch; partner, Frank Zubovich. Survived by brothers: Rick (Kathy) Yauch and Scott (Darlene) Yauch; sister, Nicole (Mike) Kennedy; numerous nieces, nephews and friends. A graveside service will be held at 11:30 am Thursday, March 31 at Green Lawn Cemetery, Columbus, Ohio. Rev. Tim Lee officiating. Arrangements completed with JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME.

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Norma Jean Runyon - September 28, 1934 - March 28, 2022

Departed: 03/28/2022 (Columbus)

Obituary Preview: Norma Jean Lewis Davis Runyon age 87 born 9/28/1934 in Middleport OH passed away on 3/28/2022. Daughter of the late George and Susie Mae Lewis. Preceded in death by her brothers; Arthur, Edward, Harold, and Larn. Sisters; Catherine, Dorothy, Margaret and Betty. The late Rev. Ralph Davis, Husband of 38 years and the late Rev. Thomas Runyon, Husband of 12 years. Son Stephen Ray Davis and Grandson Nicholas Andrew Davis. Survived by; Son, Stephen Ray ( Jennifer) Davis ll ; Daughters-in-law, Patty Casteel and Jackie Beach; Grandsons, Michael (Lindsay) Davis, Joel (Mary) Davis and Alex Davis. Great grandkids; Lucy, Reuben, Ezra ,Boaz, Zoey and Kaci Davis. Norma was a kind hearted loving soul who would make sure you never left her house empty handed. She enjoyed cooking big meals for her family, Bingo, shopping and reading her Bible. Norma read her Bible cover to cover several times. She loved the Lord, her family and the color pink. In remembrance of Norma and her love of pink we are asking if you attend to wear some pink. If ordering flowers pink is best. Friends may call at Jerry Spears 2693 W. Broad St. Tuesday, April 5th from 4-7 p.m. where service will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, April 6th. Doctor Rev. Ron Stewart will be performing the service. Interment Sunset Cemetery

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Funeral Services Offered

Jerry Spears Funeral Home offers a wide range of funeral services to meet the unique needs of each family. From traditional funeral services to cremation options, memorial services, and celebrations of life, their experienced staff will guide you through the process with sensitivity and expertise. They also offer pre-planning services, allowing you to make arrangements in advance and alleviate some of the burden from your loved ones.

Cremation Options

For those who prefer cremation, Jerry Spears Funeral Home offers a variety of options to suit your needs. Their state-of-the-art crematory is operated by licensed professionals who adhere to the highest standards of quality and integrity. From direct cremation to cremation with a memorial service, they will work with you to create a meaningful and personalized tribute to your loved one.

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home's facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere for families to gather and pay their respects. The spacious chapel can accommodate large crowds, while the visitation rooms provide an intimate setting for smaller gatherings. Additionally, Jerry Spears Funeral Home offers ample parking, wheelchair accessibility, and a variety of amenities to ensure that every family feels welcome and supported.

Community Involvement

Jerry Spears Funeral Home is deeply committed to giving back to the community they serve. Through various outreach programs, charitable donations, and volunteer work, they strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those around them. By supporting local organizations and initiatives, they aim to build stronger relationships and foster a sense of community.

Staff Profiles

The staff at Jerry Spears Funeral Home is comprised of dedicated professionals who are passionate about providing exceptional service to families in need. From licensed funeral directors to support staff, every team member is committed to upholding the highest standards of excellence and compassion. You can rest assured that your loved one will be treated with dignity and respect by their caring and experienced staff.

Contact Information

If you're in need of funeral services or would like more information about Jerry Spears Funeral Home, please don't hesitate to reach out. You can contact them by phone at [insert phone number], or visit their website at [insert website URL]. Their office hours are [insert office hours], and they are available 24/7 for emergency situations.

In conclusion, Jerry Spears Funeral Home is a beacon of hope and comfort for families in Columbus, Ohio. With their rich history, compassionate staff, and commitment to excellence, they have earned a reputation as one of the most trusted funeral homes in the area. If you're facing the loss of a loved one, trust Jerry Spears Funeral Home to guide you through the process with kindness, empathy, and professionalism.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their surviving family members, funeral arrangements, and any charitable organizations or causes that they supported.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to notify friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a sense of closure and help to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, an obituary is written by the family of the deceased, often with the assistance of a funeral home or crematorium. In some cases, a friend or colleague may also write an obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about funeral arrangements and any charitable organizations or causes that they supported.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the wishes of the family. Typically, it ranges from 100 to 500 words.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a nice way to personalize the notice and make it more meaningful.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

You can usually submit an obituary to a newspaper online or by contacting their obituary department directly. Be sure to check their guidelines for submission and any deadlines they may have.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise and can ensure that your life is celebrated in the way you want.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a longer, more detailed tribute that celebrates the person's life.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! Humor can be a wonderful way to capture the personality and spirit of the deceased. Just be sure to keep it respectful and tasteful.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication and the length of the notice. Some newspapers offer free or low-cost options, while others may charge several hundred dollars.

Can I publish an obituary online?

Yes, there are many online platforms where you can publish an obituary. This can be a convenient option for reaching a wider audience and allowing people to leave condolences and share memories.

How long will an online obituary remain available?

This varies depending on the platform. Some online obituaries remain available indefinitely, while others may be archived after a certain period of time.

Can I edit an obituary after it has been published?

In most cases, it is difficult or impossible to make changes to an obituary once it has been published. Be sure to proofread carefully before submitting!

What if I need to correct an error in an obituary?

If you need to correct an error in an obituary, contact the publication or online platform as soon as possible. They may be able to issue a correction or reprint the notice.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Absolutely! Quotes or lyrics that were meaningful to the deceased can add depth and personality to the obituary.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If you're unsure about how much information to share or how to phrase something sensitively, consider consulting with other family members or a trusted advisor.

Can I include information about memorial donations in an obituary?

Yes! Including information about memorial donations can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a good cause.

How do I ensure that all relevant parties receive notification of the death?

In addition to publishing an obituary, be sure to notify government agencies, financial institutions, creditors, and other relevant parties directly.

Can I create a memorial website or social media page instead of publishing an obituary?

Yes! Creating a memorial website or social media page can be a beautiful way to celebrate the life of the deceased and allow people to share memories and condolences.

How long does it take for an online obituary to be published?

This varies depending on the platform. Some online obituaries are published immediately, while others may take several hours or days.

Can I republish an obituary at a later date?

In some cases, yes! If you want to republish an obituary on a special anniversary or occasion, contact the original publication or online platform for guidance.

What if I'm not comfortable writing an obituary myself?

DON'T WORRY! Many funeral homes and crematoriums offer assistance with writing and submitting obituaries. You can also ask a friend or family member for help.

Are there any specific guidelines or regulations for writing an obituary?

Sometimes! Check with local authorities or religious organizations for any specific guidelines or regulations regarding content or format.

Can I include personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Personal anecdotes can add warmth and personality to the obituary and help celebrate the life of the deceased.

What if I'm struggling with grief while trying to write an obituary?

TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF IS IMPORTANT! Consider seeking support from friends, family, or a professional counselor if you're finding it difficult to cope with your emotions while writing the obituary.