The Excelsior Standard, March 14, 2025

Anna Spear

Anna Lorene Spear, 84, of Excelsior Springs passed away Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was the daughter of Roy Clancy and Anna Mae Corum, also known as “Nanny” and “Poppy.” Anna was a devoted mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother. She is survived by her three sons, Joe Spear Jr. and wife Sandy, Gary Spear and wife Debbie, and Stephen Spear and wife Shelley; sisters, Annette Miller and Jackie Sharp; grandchildren, Ashley Kane, Brianna Spear, Tyler Spear, Lauren Chabaya, Noah Spear and Joe Spear III; and several great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Joe Spear; her parents, Roy and Anna Mae Clancy (Corum); her brother, Wayne Clancy; and a granddaughter, Janae Spear.

Family meant everything to Anna. Whether it was playing a game of cards, hosting her family for chili and watching the Chiefs play after church on Sunday or going shopping with her sisters, she enjoyed spending time with those whom she loved the most.

Her vibrant, spunky personality was unforgettable. She was full of love and laughter, but also was never afraid to speak her mind or offer a little motherly advice every now and then, no matter who you were.

The only thing Anna loved more than her family was Jesus. She spent her life looking forward to the day she would finally get to meet Him. Anna wrote in her journal that she hopes to be remembered for how much she loved Jesus Christ, His word and the wonderful family and friends He had given her.

She wrote, “I hope people smile when they think of me.” That is the legacy she leaves behind. A celebration of Anna’s life was held Saturday, March 1, at her home church of 52 years, Crescent Lake Christian Center. A visitation began at 1 p.m., followed by the services at 2. A graveside service was held at Hillcrest Cemetery, Excelsior Springs.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Good Samaritan Pet Food Pantry in Excelsior Springs in honor of Anna’s love for her fur babies and her giving spirit.

Her favorite verse was Isaiah 40:31: “But those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”

Services were under the care of Hidden Valley Funeral Home of Excelsior Springs.