John Speer

Kernersville-John Richard Speer, 83, passed away, with his family by his side, Friday March 15, 2013 at Village Care of King. Graveside Funeral Services celebrating his life will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday March 19, 2013 in God's Acre at Old Salem. A native of Forsyth County, he was born September 9, 1929 to the late Annie Beatrice Livengood Speer and John Henry Walter Speer. He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years Mary Nifong Speer in 2011. In addition he was preceded in death by a son Steven Lewis Speer in 2002 and a brother David Walter Speer. "Poppy" was a proud son, husband, father , and grandfather that had unconditional love for his family. He leaves a legacy of love, wisdom and integrity for generations to come. John graduated from High Point College and later served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict. He retired from Bimco Plumbing Supply. He loved fishing and was happiest at his and Mary's home at Emerald Isle. John was an avid reader and loved a good cigar. He never missed an opportunity to take his grandchildren for ice cream. He loved his garden and raised the best tomatoes, okra, peppers and cucumbers which he shared with family and neighbors. John and Mary were active members of Home Moravian Church as long as their health permitted, helping in the kitchen and making the coffee for love feasts for many years. Survivors include his son Richard Walter Speer and Wanda of Kernersville; grandchildren Mary Speer Crews of Durham, Richard Walter Speer, Jr. of High Point, and Mona Michelle Speer of Kernersville; great-granddaughter Amaya Cammer Crews of Durham; special brother-in-law and sister-in-law Roy and Grace Nifong of Winston-Salem who have been so very faithful; nieces Marianne Raker and Gwyn of Roswell, Georgia and Susan Williamson and Rick of Winston-Salem; special thanks go to Bobbie Harrison of Kernersville for not only being a compassionate caregiver, but also a special friend. The family will visit with friends from 6-8pm Monday evening at the Pierce-Jefferson Funeral & Cremation Service. The family would like to express appreciation to Village Care of King for the wonderful care given to Poppy these last two years, and also Pierce-Jefferson Funeral Home for their care and compassion during this difficult time. Facts Born: September 9, 1929 Death: March 15, 2013 Services Service Information