Julian H. Spears

Born October 7, 1940, the youngest child of James William Spears II and Ruby G. Spears. Julian entered into eternal rest April 9, 2018 in Stockton, California. He was preceded in death by his parents Mr. and Mrs. James and Ruby Spears, Brother James Spears II and Sister Carolyn Spears Groves.

Julian is survived by his wife, Merelyn Cummings Spears, children Judith, Evan, Jeffery, and Jennifer, his step-sons Shaun, Christopher, Rondy Michael, and Chucky, and step-daughter Roshelle, grandchildren Henry, Noah, Max, Sophia, Leah, Jaden and step grand-children, Vanessa, Armelia, Asha, Jalen, Anthony, Jackson and Olive. He also leaves behind a beloved sister Constance as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and devoted friends especially Ralph Armstrong.

Julian graduated from Austin High School, Knoxville Tennessee and finished one year at Knoxville College. He then joined the service. He was in the 82nd airborne division, the world’s most highly trained light infantry. He volunteered for the Green Beret and because he passed the rigorous training was assigned to the elite 5th SPECIAL FORCES GROUP earning his place as a Captain. He served three tours in the Vietnam War. Julian served his country with distinction and was honorably discharged on September 12, 1969. Captain Spears earned the Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal, One overseas service bar, Combat infantryman’s badge, and the Vietnam Service Medal (With Three Campaign Stars).

Julian came home and completed his formal education with a BS from the University of California in Hayward. He worked for Oakland Unified as a special education teacher for several years.

As his health began to impact him, he began his long road home. He was blessed in his journey to meet many good friends and loved ones.

Julian wrote the following in his dairy.

Sometimes it’s not the million dollar gifts;

for the smile on a child’s face,

is more precious than

gold or silver,

The butterfly or tree out shines

The most radiant diamond.

But the gift of love given by God

Is the greatest gift of all.

~ Julian H. Spears- 4/28/11 ~