Dr. Samuel Sears Jr., EdD, 83, Lexington, and Fort Myers, Fla. passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, Wednesday, July 18 at his residence in Lexington.
He was born Nov. 10, 1928 in Glasgow to Col. and Mrs. Sam Sears. He received his bachelor's degree from Centre College in 1950, his master's degree from WKU and in 1967 received his doctorate in education from UK. He taught public school and was the football coach at both Glasgow High School & Lebanon High School. He also worked for Jessamine County Schools as supervisor of instruction and Fayette County Schools, before joining the legislative research commission, for the Kentucky General Assembly, as assistant director. He retired in 1988 and spent many years traveling and playing golf. He never missed an opportunity to defend his opinion! He was a wonderful and giving father, husband and friend.
Surviving are his wife, Carolyn Sears, his two children, Kathleen Sears (Dallas Law) and Samuel Sears, III (David Sparks) and their mother, Grace Woodward, all of Lexington, a sister, Barbara Murdock of Nashville and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents and a sister, Ruth Hundley. He served in both the Kentucky National Guard and in combat during the Korean conflict as a captain in the 623 Field Artillery, where he received the United Nations Service Medal, the Korean Service Medal and the Bronze Star. The Family would like to thank Fran Reynolds, Charlie McAdams and Phyllis McAdams for their compassionate care given to Sammy during his last months.
Memorial services and Military Rites to be announced at a later date. Donations are suggested to the Southern Poverty Law Center in memory of Samuel Sears Jr.
Kerr Brothers - Main Street, Lexington, is in charge of local arrangements.
Published in The Lebanon Enterprise on July 25, 2012
