Deborah “Debbie” Anne Martin Spears passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025. Debbie was born March 10, 1957 in Olney, MD, the daughter of the late Calvin and Mary Martin. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Howard James Spears. Debbie leaves behind her daughters: Heather Lawson (Jack) of Fleming Island, FL, Becky Spears of Gainesville, FL, and Sarah Thomas (Dave) of Edmond, OK. Also left behind are her treasured granddaughters and great-granddaughter: Faith Keen, Paige McNeish (Dylan), Emma Lawson, Savannah Thomas, Charlotte Thomas, and Quinn McNeish.
Debbie treasured her entire family and was blessed to grow up around her siblings and lots of close cousins in Maryland. Siblings include: the late Mary Lou Aronson (Charles), Thomas Martin (Candace), and Susan Fear (Jeff).
Anyone that knew her would say that she was the most kind, compassionate, and loving person. Debbie served others her entire life and especially loved being a nurse. In her career, she loved working with the elderly in nursing homes, but also spent time with sick babies. She took incredible pride in her home, both decorating for the holidays and spending time in her lawn and garden. Debbie loved baking and crafting, always taking time to share her creations with others. She loved her church family at Orange Park United Methodist and spent years attending church and groups there. Her greatest love was her family and she poured every bit of her time and energy into her “girls”. She never missed an opportunity to support one of her kids or grandkids at a special event and was intentional in spending time with each of them.
Our family would love to thank Dr. Augusto Villegas, Mayo Clinic of Jacksonville, OU Health, and Providence Care at Home. We are grateful for your support and all the time we had with our dearest Mom and Nana. A celebration of life will be shared after arrangements are made.
