Sidney Laurez Spears

Sidney Laurez Spears, age 77, passed away on December 16, 2025, leaving a legacy of devotion and hard work. Born on February 4, 1948, in Svea, Florida, to Alton and Leona Stokes Spears, Sidney was raised in Cassia, Florida.

Sidney’s life changed forever when he met the love of his life, Edna Johnson. He moved to Walton County and married her in 1968, beginning a journey of more than five decades together. A dedicated worker, he spent his career as a truck driver for Hodges Lumber Company and Walton County, from which he retired in 2010. He was widely known as a man who worked tirelessly to provide for his family.

An avid outdoorsman, Sidney found great joy in being in nature, specifically through hunting, fishing, and gardening. He loved listening to country music, especially the works of Johnny Cash. Above all, he cherished the time spent with his family, particularly his grandchildren.

Sidney leaves behind his beloved wife, Edna Johnson Spears and daughters Nina Outlaw (Travis), Amanda Blackmon (Lamont), and Jessica Gentry (James). He is also survived by his precious grandchildren: Angel McCafferty (Troy), Dustin Simmons (Kenya), Brittney Anderson, Breeanna Van Meer, Lathan Gentry, and Charlee Outlaw, and great-grandchildren: Damon McCafferty, Nora Mae McCafferty, Zhya Simmons, and Koa Simmons. Other survivors include his brother Ottis Qualls (Mildred) and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alton and Leona Stokes Spears; his brothers, Harold, DeWaine, and Warren Spears; his sisters, Mildred Qualls, Vivian Brackin, and Della Spears; father-in-law, Clarence Johnson; mother-in-law, Jessie Mae Johnson; and brother-in-law, Roger Johnson.

Sidney’s genuine dedication to loving his family and to providing for them was a true gift that will not be forgotten.