Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
SCOTT SPEAR Obituary
SCOTT L. SPEAR Pioneer in Reconstructive Plastic Surgery dies at 68
Dr. Scott L. Spear, an icon in the field of plastic surgery, passed away peacefully Thursday, March 16, 2017 at his home in Bethesda, Maryland. He was 68. He was taken from us unexpectedly and too soon, but in a happy moment in both his life and career. He is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Cindy; his three children, Alexandra Spear Peurach (Matthew), Geri Spear Allyn (Conor) and Louis Spear (Emily); and his two grandchildren, Aidan Scott Allyn and Reese Alexandra Peurach. Other family members include brother, James Spear (Enid) and sister, Carol Gittler. A service to celebrate his life will be held on Sunday, March 19 at 1:30 p.m. at the Washington Hebrew Congregation, 3935 Macomb Street NW, Washington, DC 20016. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor should be made to The Breast Reconstruction Awareness Campaign, a program that is an embodiment of his professional life's work at www.breastreconusa.orgServices entrusted to Sagel Bloomfield Danzansky Funeral Care. www.sagelbloomfield.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for SCOTT SPEAR
Eileen Rhoads
March 12, 2025
I think of you so often still. Your compassion and care lifted from my despair and carried me through. You´re always in my heart. Missing you still.
Eileen Rhoads
March 12, 2024
Always in my heart, always in my memory. Dr. Spear was an unexpected gift to me who carried me through a devastating period of my life. Remembering Dr. Spear with love always. Eileen Rhoads
David T
August 15, 2023
So sorry to hear - he just crossed my mind today. Prayers and condolences for him and his family. Enjoyed his guidance for our company years ago.
Eliana Campbell
October 22, 2019
Dr. Scott Spear taught plastic surgeons all over the world a course titled Nipple Reconstruction Tattoo Workshop. I was the support staff at the Aesthetic Society who organized the course he taught for 20 years. He was an ultimate professional, perfectionist and educator. A fewer years after he stopped teaching the course "because the world knew his technique" a friend who contracted breast cancer had the procedure done. She was so happy with the outcome that she wanted to show me. I remembered Dr. Spear and how great he was in that course and the gift he left for women who get this horrible disease. If it was not for him, she would not be so happy with the outcome. I will never forget Dr. Spear as long as I live. Rest in peace!
Eileen Rhoads
March 10, 2018
Ode to a Suegeon
We met in the eys of my despair
You came with healing hands
Carrying hope
I followed you blindly
Trusting, always trusting
And the light came to my eyes
The vision you saw
I see
It is me
And I am free from my despair.
Written for Dr. Scott L. Spear
By Eileen M. Rhoads
Breast Cancer Patient from 1991 - 1993
Dr. Scott Spear was a true gift to me when I faced surgery for breast cancer. His skills as a surgeon and his compassion as a healer enabled me to face a future with hope. He was loved by all his patients, myself included. I am so deeply saddened to learn that his life was cut short without warning. I sincerely offer my sympathies to his family, friends and patients. As the song goes, "I always thought I'd see you again."
My dearest friend
Suzette Zablit
July 30, 2017
My dearest doctor friend, every day as I get dress I thank God for the hope you have given me in my reconstructive surgery. Every day I tear knowing I am the last patient you saw on that day in March. I know you are in a far better world than the one you left but so many women where counting on you, your skill, your kindness, your patience and your excellence in giving women the faith they all derserve in maintaining their dignity after a double mastectomy. We will meet again my friend, if not at our restaurant Mizette, somewhere else in the galaxy. May your soul rest in eternal peace dear Dr. Spear.
May 4, 2017
I had the privilege of being Dr. Spear's patient. He was an amazing person. He was very kind and considerate of me not only as a patient, but as a person under his care. Prayers and condolences to his family and friends. RIP
Lynda Gray
April 19, 2017
My heart goes out to the family of Dr.Scott . He will be remembered for his many, many acts of kindness, generosity and compassion. I was shocked to receive your letter, as I too had reconstruction by your talented husband. My cancer was discovered when I was only 32 and that was 30 years ago. I will forever remember this gifted man that put my life back on track.
April 18, 2017
I am stunned and greatly saddened by Dr. Scott's passing. His jubilant personality matched his skills and talent. I'll remember him fondly...
Priscilla R
Shauna Kattler
April 18, 2017
It is with deep sadness I learned today of Dr. Spear's passing. The world has lost a wonderful man.
I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Spear in March 2015. I consulted with 4 other surgeons before I went to him, and upon meeting him immediately knew he was the one I wanted to do my surgery. Despite my nervousness, he put me at ease with his subtle and gentle humor. Never before have I felt such a connection with a doctor, where he was somewhat of a "father-like" figure to me.
He was humble despite the fact he travelled the world to speak at seminars and conferences due to his expertise on breast reconstruction. He always had a warm smile and a twinkle in his eye. He could make you feel like a thousand bucks when you didn't think the surgery did. He was always professional, sharply dressed and knew how to make you feel relaxed just by making casual conversation. He cared.
I have lost Uncles and other family members who I probably met as many times as I did Dr. Spear, yet I'm deeply saddened by his passing.
My heart goes out to his family, to Sonia and Lisa. I'm so very sorry for your loss and know that I will never forget the imprint he left on my life in the short time I knew him.
"Friend, please don't mourn for me, I'm still here, though you don't see. I'm right by hour side each night and day and within your heart I long to stay.
"My body is gone, but I'm always near, I'm everything you feel, see or hear. My spirit is free, but I'll never depart, as long as you keep me alive in your heart."
God Bless you Dr. Spear.
Roxanne E
April 17, 2017
I am deeply, saddened by the news of Dr Scott's early and sudden passing. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy at this tragic-time. Dr Scott was an amazing individual and truly a gifted and absolute BEST surgeon. His honest and professional opinion meant the world to me. I have never had so much trust in a doctor as I did for him. He will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, Sonia, Lisa...!
Donald Hause, MD
April 17, 2017
I was very saddened to hear of his early passing. He was a great leader and teacher with absolute intellectual honesty. I only met him a few times but every time I heard him speak, I was a better Plastic Surgeon because of his work. He will be missed by everyone in our profession.
susan broderick
April 15, 2017
So very sorry to hear this news. Dr. Spear was such a wonderful man and an amazing surgeon. He made a big difference in my life (performed reconstruction after two serious infections) and I will never forget him. Prayers and love being sent to his family and friends.
Sherry Burka
April 11, 2017
I was so saddened to hear of Scott's passing. We were out of the country and unaware at the time. Sending hugs to the family. May your memories give you strength at this difficult time. Sincerely,Sherry and Richard Burka
Michael Morris MD
April 11, 2017
I'm sadden by the loss of a colleague and friend. Scott was a wonderful upbeat confident physician and inspired us. I'll never forget him.
Bonnie Bernau
April 4, 2017
My sincere condolences! I was extremely saddened to hear of Dr. Scott's passing. I am one of many to whom he restored a sense of dignity after the devastating news I had stage 3 breast cancer...I was only 45 years old! Dr. Scott compassionately counseled me about reconstructive options and with his guidance I made the very tough decision to have a bi-lateral mastectomy. After a challenging year of aggressive treatment, his skill and artistry meant I could again put on any clothing and 'pass' for normal in public, allowing me to get on with my active lifestyle. I'm now a 20-year survivor and attribute much of my positive attitude to the excellent surgery he did on me...not one problem...and I have heard of other stories! I always hoped I would be able to get back to Washington to show him how well his work was "holding up"! (pun intended)
Of course I realize this is a personal loss of husband, father, grandfather, and friend, but I wanted you all to know so many of his patients had our lives turned around by him. I will never forget his kindness and surgical skill; I am living proof!
Kimberly Parasher
March 27, 2017
Dr. Spear's competence, compassion, & kindness were life changing gifts to so many. I am so shocked, heartbroken, & deeply saddened at the news of this great loss. He is loved & will be missed always..
Trish Dennig
March 24, 2017
So sorry to hear the news. My deep condolences go out to Cynthia and the family. Scott was a person who will always be remembered for his kindness.
A. Dymond
March 24, 2017
My first encounter with Dr. Spear was in 2006 at Georgetown University Hospital after meeting with my surgeon and after a devastating decision had been made that I would be having a mastectomy. He was kind enough to squeeze me and my husband in for an unscheduled visit that same day. I was in a shock, but Dr. Spear put me at ease right away and he gave me hope in a terrible situation. He did a great job that gave me back my dignity as a woman. His warmth and talent brought me back again several years later when the cancer came back. He is greatly missed. My condolences to his family.
Miki Oliver
March 24, 2017
Dr. Spear was, without a doubt, a one of a kind doctor. There is no one like him. The plastic surgery field has lost an amazing surgeon, caring doctor and teacher of this field. So sad to hear the news.
Sylvia Edwards, ESq
March 21, 2017
Dr. Spear was my surgeon for breast reconstruction in 1985. I've always remembered how kind and comforting he was to me.
March 21, 2017
Dear Cindy, I am so sorry for your loss of Scott. I have so many very happy memories of our fun family times together. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Love Katie Clark
Richard Bosshardt, MD
March 21, 2017
I met Scott in Georgetown in 1987 while interviewing for a position in his residency program there. I found him to be warm, genuine, and easy to relate to. These early impressions were only strengthened in the years that followed as I ran across him at meetings and functions for the Millard Society. My goal in breast surgery was always to get results like his. I had just spoken to Scott a few weeks ago to discuss a new material for breast reconstruction and was very saddened to hear of his untimely and unexpected passing. My prayers and condolences to his friends and family and hope that God will be a close and comforting presence during this time. He will be missed by many.
March 20, 2017
Doctor Spears did my breast reconstruction in 1997 after a bout with breast cancer. Fantastic surgeon and doctor. Celestine Ferney
Victoria Brown
March 20, 2017
What cancer took away from me, Dr. Spear gave back in the forms of understanding, vision of how I saw myself and how he could return me to there, and humor to make every follow-up visit more healing. I am forever grateful. My sincere condolences to the Spear family.
Deb Neuschler
March 20, 2017
Dearest Cindy, Alex, Geri and Louis,
We were truly, deeply, saddened to hear of Scott's passing. The world has lost a brilliant, caring, accomplished person. The memory of his wonderful spirit will remain with all those he touched over the years. May his loving spirit, and the love of all who surround you, bring you strength and comfort during this time of grief. You are in our thoughts and prayers
Deb, Paul, and Erin Neuschler
Rachel and Jeffrey Sherman
March 19, 2017
He was our physician and our colleague for more than 14 years. His death, for us and we are sure for many others, leaves a void that cannot be filled. May his memory be forever a blessing and may you be comforted with the mourners of Jerusalem and Zion.
Rachel and Jeffrey Sherman
March 19, 2017
Cindi, Alex, Gerri, and Louis,
My family and I have fond memories of your family as we were your neighbors for 17 years. Condolences to you in the lost of your husband and father, may God grant you peace and serenity in your time of sorrow.
Marciana and Dwight Ford, Drew and Christina
Christine Eckloff-Vassos
March 19, 2017
My Godson, Noah, had a disfigurement on his chest. Noah would not swim or play without a shirt on even at the age of six. Noah had no health insurance. Dr. Spear fixed him and told Noah, "Now you can tell everyone a shark bit you". Noah is now 16 and goes without a shirt. I will never forget your grace and generosity. The world has lost a great human being and a family has lost their husband, dad, and brother. God Bless you Dr. Spear and your family.
Dr Julian Lofts
March 18, 2017
Dr Spear was immensely respected by the Australasian plastic surgical community for his research, publications, teaching and his superb results. He leaves a great legacy in the education and training of so many breast surgeons and medical personnel worldwide.
My sincerest condolences to the Spear family for the loss of a truly great man.
Barbara Brown
March 18, 2017
Scott was my childhood friend in Chicago.
We attended the University of Chicago Lab School. I fondly remember him as a child. Always a twinkle in his eye. I'm so sorry. It's a loss for so many.
Barbara Brown
S Wilson
March 18, 2017
May the God of all comfort strengthen the family during this time of deep sorrow. Those who pass on, God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes. My sincerest condolences. Psalms 116:15.
Frederick Lukash
March 18, 2017
Condolences
Christian Prada
March 18, 2017
He will be greatly missed. A true gentlemen in life and gifted surgeon. My thoughts and prayers to the whole family.
R.Scott
March 18, 2017
Please accept my condolences for the loss of your dear love one. I pray that God will give you comfort during these troubled times. Please read Psalm 119:76.
March 18, 2017
So sorry for your loss. Please know that God cares and will comfort you.
~ Psalm 86:17
Alice Luck
March 18, 2017
Dear Cindy and Louis,
I am very sorry for your loss. I was the fourth grade teacher of Louis. Cindy, your kindness towards me and my children will never be forgotten. Please know that you and your family will be in my prayers for healing. Dr. Spear will forever be remembered for his immense contribution to the medical field of breast reconstruction.
Kimberly Warner
March 18, 2017
Dr Spear was an artist. His professionalism and compassion for all who he cared for makes him one man who will always be remember ed with love and appreciation. God , please take wonderful care of our beloved friend , one who touched and enhanced the lives of so many in this world. Bless him for he was one of my heroes.
Megan Murphy Davis
March 18, 2017
It was with great sorrow that we learned of Dr Spear's passing - it's St Patrick's day - and the news crushed my family for we all knew what a special man he was. Dr. Spear helped so many of us with breast cancer - He gave us hope and laughter when life looked so dark. He loved his work and I will always think of him when I read Joyce's words...
They lived and laughed and loved and left.
James Joyce, Finnegans Wake
Showing 1 - 41 of 41 results
Make a Donation
in SCOTT SPEAR's name
Memorial Events
for SCOTT SPEAR
Funeral services provided by:
Sagel Bloomfield Danzansky Goldberg Funeral Care Inc.170 Rollins Ave, Rockville, MD 20852
How to support SCOTT's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor SCOTT SPEAR's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
