Thomas Vincent Shearer

Tom was born in Fremont, Ohio on October 26, 1937 to William Vincent and Faye Louise Heschel Shearer. He attended Ross High School and Bowling Green State University before marrying the love of his life, Nancy née Burmeister in 1959 and starting his family and career. In Fremont, Tom began his real estate career as a real estate broker, home renovator and later as a real estate appraiser.

In 1970, Tom and his family made Greensboro their home as he began working for the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) including a three-year stint in Scranton, Pennsylvania after Hurricane Agnes devastated the surrounding area. After leaving HUD, Tom developed Trails Crossing Townhomes in High Point and then launched Tom Shearer and Associates in the early 1980s. He worked at his successful real estate appraisal and home inspection business almost till his 85th birthday with his wife Nancy by his side. He was a member of the Greensboro Realtors Association. In the latter part of his career, Tom worked exclusively on appraisals generated by the Veterans Administration. He found joy being able to meet and serve so many veterans and their families in the Triad.

Tom was a spiritual man who spent countless hours pouring over scripture, studying Christian thought leaders and connecting with friends in Christ. For nearly 40 years, he found friendship, companionship and sustenance at John Willett’s weekly Bible study group. Tom‘s large network of friends netted him many intimate friendships, which nourished his need to learn and grow, and to help him on his journey.

A loving, devoted and compassionate husband, father, and cherished friend, Tom loved to be surrounded by his family and friends. Most important was his Nancy, who spent more than 60 years by his side. At home, he was passionate about bringing people together through family gatherings, or college basketball games, which were very loud and passionate. Tom could always be counted on whether the need was a listening ear, a warm embrace, counsel, encouragement, or even a place to stay as his home and heart were always open.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, William Vincent and Faye Louise Shearer; his son, Thomas Vincent Shearer II; his daughter, Shelly Ann Shearer; and his granddaughter, Victoria Lee Cowett.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Lee Shearer née Burmeister; daughter and son-in-law, Judy Shearer and Kenneth Wayne Adair; daughter, Elizabeth Ann Shearer; and granddaughter, Nicole Elizabeth Adair.

Tom brought joy and encouragement to others. While our hearts are broken for our loss, we are grateful for our time with him. He will be missed.

A memorial service will be held at 2 pm on Thursday, May 11, 2023 at Hanes Lineberry Funeral Home with Pastor John Willett officiating.

Instead of flowers, please consider donating to John Willett’s ministry, Search Ministries, 1852 Pembroke Rd, Greensboro, North Carolina 27408.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.haneslineberryfhnorthelm.com for the Shearer family.