Tommie Marie Bear

Tommie Marie Bear, a gentle soul whose warmth, kindness, and grace touched everyone she knew, peacefully left this world at the incredible age of 97, leaving behind a legacy of love and faith that will forever be cherished. Tommie was born on May 10, 1928, in Avon Lake, Ohio, to Andrew Thomas, a dedicated Stationary Steam Engineer, and Marie Thomas, a nurturing Manager of the Hough Bakery. She had three older sisters: Lillian, Eleanor, and Dorothy, an older brother Andrew, and a younger brother Ronald (whom she is survived by).   

From a young age, Tommie's creative and thoughtful spirit shone brightly. As a talented artist and diligent student at Avon Lake High School, she earned two silver medals and served as one of the yearbook artists-her imagination and dedication setting the stage for a life of purpose and aspiration. It was during those formative years that she met her lifelong love, Richard Bear, with whom she shared a sweet courtship. Graduating in 1946 under the banner of "Our aim is high, our goal the sky," Tommie carried that same boundless spirit through every chapter of her extraordinary life.   

After high school, she began her career as a Secretary for the Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company, without knowing how strong her vision for her life would become. On August 19, 1949, Tommie and Richard married, and embarked on their journey together, later selling their wedding gifts to fund their dreams. They left Ohio for California in 1951 envisioning a future filled with hard work, hope, and a deepening family bond.   

Throughout their years together, Tommie's unwavering support and love shone through. She sold Tupperware in the evenings and worked tirelessly to see Richard through college.  When Richard started his advertising company, Tommie served as Secretary, Officer, and Director. However, her greatest pride and joy were her roles as a devoted wife and nurturing mother to Reed, Bruce, and Leslie. She cherished caring for Richard's grandmother, Nellie Amadon, treating her with the same love and respect she bestowed on her immediate family.   

Tommie's heart extended also beyond her family, as she dedicated her life to her community and faith. Her involvement ranged from supporting the Brownies and serving as Den Leader of the Boy Scout Troop, to opening her home to single pregnant women, providing them with love, guidance, and a safe haven. As a longtime member of Calvary Community Church in Westlake Village, she and Richard were generous supporters and enjoyed attending services together-a testament to her deep spirituality and unwavering faith.   

A woman of many interests, Tommie found joy in reading, drawing, traveling, and cooking. She delighted in high fashion, skiing, boating, and celebrating the holidays with decoration and cheer. Her home was often filled with the aroma of homemade chili or upside-down pineapple cake. Whether on the water as a devoted member of the Westlake Yacht Club or sharing countless joyful moments with friends she had loved since her early twenties, Tommie's vibrant spirit radiated through all she did.   

She was preceded in death by Richard Bear, who passed away on October 10, 2013. She leaves behind a loving family-her children Richard and Nancy Bear, Bruce and Peggy Bear, Leslie and Michael Murphy; her cherished grandchildren Cindy and Randy Owens, Kristy and Kevin McKee, Kelly and Wayne Croasdale, Jean and Keith Furillo, Cheri and TJ Quigley, Jason and Renee Bear, Sean and Tawnya Bear, Rebecca and Chris Degioanni, Mike Murphy, and David and Lana Murphy-and her seventeen beloved great grandchildren.   

In all she did, her life was an example of kindness, grace, and faith.   

A celebration of her life will be held in Santa Barbara, California, at the sacred place she and Richard chose for their final resting. Though she has departed from this earthly life, her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who loved her, and in the eternity that awaits us.