Peter Benjamin Speares

"Ben", born 24 September1970, beloved Son of Maggie and Joe Speares passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Born at Fort Jackson and raised in Lexington, Ben lived a life of faith, generosity and community service, a man who never met a stranger. Ben was a gentle soul with a welcoming smile and a heart full of compassion. Known by many as the "Mayor of Oak Grove," he was ready with a wave, a story or a helping hand. Ben was one of the hardest workers most ever knew; a trait he inherited from his parents. He served honorably for 13 years as a Sergeant with the 122nd Engineers, of the SCARNG. Ben served as a Regional Manager for 35 years at A-Oak Farms, fostering his love of all plants and built what became his second family. After A-Oak, he continued his career with Space Metal and most recently, found joy in what he called his "retirement job" at Baptist Hospital. He was a devout Clemson Tiger fan; one of the highlights of his life was receiving a heartfelt personal message from Coach Dabo Swinney - a gesture deeply moving Ben and spoke to the loyalty and joy he carried for his team. Ben is survived by his beloved wife, the love of his life, Debra Jean Speares, whom he shared 34 wonderful years of marriage. He is survived by his sons, Joshua "Josh" Hayden Speares and Jacob "Jake" Emanual Speares, and Jacob's wife Ansley, along with their soon-to-be-born son, Rhett Emanual Speares

Ben is lovingly remembered by his cherished mother, Margaret "Maggie" King Miller (who was always by his side during his illness) (Tim), . He was preceded in death by his father, Joe Emanual Speares, Jr. (Evelyn), maternal grandparents, John and Betsy King of Anderson, his paternal grandmother, Frances Boggs Speares of Irmo, who survives him; his grandfather, Joe Emanual Speares, Sr., preceded him. Ben's siblings include JoLynn "joJo" Speares Hinz (Ty); nieces, Maggie, Kathryn and nephew, Anderson; Daniel Scott Speares (Olivia); nieces, Bailey and Reese; Jennifer Speares Lehman (T); nephew, Crew; and niece, Cooper; Aimee Speares Sanders (Alan); nieces, Gracie and Aleigh-Jo; Allison "Ally-Cat" Speares Kimberling (his guardian Angel) (Bill); nieces, Maddie Collins and Meghan. He was preceded by his brother, John Joseph "Josh" Speares. A celebration of Ben's life was held 18 July 2025 at Barr-Price Funeral Home in Lexington, SC. In lieu of flowers, the family asks friends and loved ones plant a tree in Ben's honor, a living tribute to his passion for watching things grow. May these trees serve as lasting symbols of his Faith, his joy, and the roots he helped plant in the hearts of so many. Though Ben is no longer with us in body, his spirit endures, in the rustling of the leaves, in the laughter of family and friends and in the roar of a Saturday crowd at Death Valley. Go Tigers!