APPLE VALLEY – Barbara Lu Spearman, 88, of Apple Valley joined her husband, Roger C. Spearman, in glory on Friday, Nov. 19, 2021. She was born on Aug. 5, 1933, in Ramah, Colorado, to the late Clyde and Velma Stricker. Due to the death of her birth mother, Barbara was adopted into the family of Terence and Elizabeth Genre at the age of 2.
After graduation from high school, Barb was employed by Cooper Bessemer. It was there that she met her “intended,” Roger C. Spearman, as he assisted her in unfreezing her automobile doors after an ice storm. During their 64 years of marriage, Roger and Barbara established Spearman Hunting Supplies. After retirement from the Knox County Extension office, Barbara took up tole painting and found a hidden talent that led her to oil portraits of all of her grandchildren as well as many animals and landscapes. Many of her works were displayed at Richland County Art Center as well as open house at Mount Vernon Nazarene University.
As a member of Brandon Baptist Church, Barbara entertained the junior Sunday School class with her guitar. Retirement also allowed Barbara the time to bless many an ill child with a cookie jar full of homemade cookies.
While raising her four children, Barb was active as a 4-H adviser and continued her sewing by completing numerous hand-stitched quilts.
Though short in stature, Barb was mighty in spirit and instilled in her family the love of the Lord.
She is survived by her children, Rebecca (Randy) Frye, Douglas (Diane) Spearman, Steven (Brenda) Spearman, Diane (James) Goodrich; 12 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and her sister Gabriell Shaul.
In addition to her parents and adoptive parents, Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Roger C. Spearman; and her brothers Edward Genre and Derwin Genre.
A private burial will take place in Brandon Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: MMS Aviation, 24387 Airport Road, P.O. Box 1118, Coshocton, OH 43812-6118.
To send the family a condolence online, visit www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.
The Dowds-Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Barbara Lu Spearman.
