James Orvin Spears, Sr., age 84, of Lucedale, MS passed away on Tuesday, September 26, 2023 at his home in Lucedale.  Mr. Spears was born June 8, 1939 in Greene County, MS. He is the son of the late Onrie Orvin Spears and the late Emma (Welford) Smith.  He married Gwendolyn L. Rustin on October 19, 1962 at Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, MS.

Mr. Spears served in the Air Force from May 26, 1960 to May 31, 1980. During his years of service to his nation his travels took him many places: Keesler AFB Biloxi, MS, Fort Walton Beach, FL, Germany where both of his children were born, Memphis State College ROTC, Vietnam, Washington DC then to Maxwell AFB, AL where he retired after 20 years of service. Mr. Spears was a family man, loved making time for his family. He was an avid photographer taking as many pictures as he could. He loved the Rocky Creek Community where he was a lifelong resident. He was a member of Rocky Creek Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife: Gwendolyn L. Spears, son: Jamey (Gina) Spears; daughter: Lisa (Colline) Spears; two sisters: Harriett (Richard) Parnell and Jean (Red) Sessions; He also has five grandchildren; Rusty Spears, M. Kelene (Adam) Spears-Westman, Josh (Maci) Spears, Cali Spears and Kiersten Spears; a close friend, Tracy George. And a host of Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and other family members.

Predeceased by his father, Onrie O. Spears; mother, Emma Welford Smith; and a brother, Glenn Spears.

Serving as pallbearers will be: Josh Spears, Jimmy Blount, Marshall McRaney, Randy McRaney, Eric Lee, Sandy Sanford, Gil Rustin, and Adam Westman

The funeral will be held 3:00 pm on Friday, September 29, 2023 at Rocky Creek Baptist Church, 2165 Rocky Creek Road, Lucedale, MS with Rev. Greg Barker and Dr. Paul Brashier  officiating.  Burial will be in Rocky Creek Cemetery, Lucedale, MS.

Calling hours will be Friday, September 29, 2023 from 1:00pm-3:00pm at Rocky Creek Baptist Church, 2165 Rocky Creek Road, Lucedale, MS

Sigler Funeral Home, 601-947-3112, www.siglerfuneral.com, 4248 Main Street, Lucedale, MS, is in charge of arrangements.