Royce Stephen Speer

With deep love and gratitude for a life well lived, we share that Royce Stephen Speer was called home by his Lord and Savior on February 20, 2026, at the age of 79.

Born March 31, 1946 in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, Steve was a man of extraordinary intellect, faith, and generosity. He earned a doctorate in Physics and devoted the majority of his professional life to engineering within the semiconductor field. His work focused on developing test programs for phototransistors and VCSELs (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers), where he played a meaningful role in the early development of VCSEL technology, innovations that today contribute to high-speed data transmission and modern phone facial recognition systems.

While Steve’s academic and professional achievements were remarkable, those who knew him best will remember him most for his character, faith, and generous heart. A devoted Christian, Steve served faithfully as a deacon at Buckingham Road Church of Christ and later dedicated his time to the sound system and safety team at Saturn Road Church of Christ. He also found great joy in visiting nursing homes, where he shared his love of worship by singing hymns and encouraging others through song. His love for Christ and commitment to spreading the Gospel were central to his life and reflected in the way he cared for others.

Outside of his career and church service, Steve pursued many passions. He had a deep love for photography– so much so that he converted one of his closets into a darkroom where he developed and printed his own photographs. In the 1970s and 1980s, he enjoyed owning and flying a Cessna aircraft, embracing both adventure and precision. He was also known for his love of do-it-yourself projects, always building, remodeling, and improving the home he cherished.

Steve’s generosity extended far beyond words. He opened his home and his heart to more than a dozen foster children, offering stability, care, and kindness to those in need. He loved being a father and a Papa, a role he cherished and took great pride in. His quiet compassion and steadfast values left a lasting imprint on many lives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Verna Mae Speer; his elder sister, Suzanne Inomata; and his beloved wife of 54 years, Deloris Speer.

Steve is survived by his son, Brian Speer; his daughters, Shannon Speer and Jody Wall; and his beloved grandchildren, Louis and Avery Saucedo; and his great-grandchild Benjamin Saucedo.

He will be remembered for his intellect, his faith, his generosity, and the steady, thoughtful presence he brought into the lives of those who loved him.