Isaac Spears, Sr.

Retired Chief Petty Officer Isaac Spears Sr., affectionately known as Ike, entered eternal rest on Friday, May 3, 2024, at Sentara Leigh Hospital, Norfolk, Virginia.  He was a dedicated Navy veteran of the Korean War, Lifetime member of the United States Submarine Veterans Inc., honored as a Holland Club member for being qualified in Submarines for over 50 years, a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, and longtime local marching band boosters supporter.  In addition to his decorated military career and passion for community service, his greatest achievement(s) was: loving husband of 70 years to Margaret L. Spears; father of 7; grandfather of 15; great-grandfather of 46; and great-great grandfather of 3.

Isaac Sr. was born September 27, 1933, in Luling, Texas (Caldwell County), to his loving parents Marie Queen and Matthew Spears.  On February 1, 1953, Isaac exchanged vows with the love of his life, Margaret L. Haliday, marking the beginning of a beautiful journey together.  Their union was blessed with seven children.

All who knew and loved Isaac, heard him tell amazing stories of his Naval Service.  He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1950.  He qualified in Submarines aboard the USS Trumpetfish (SS-425) in 1960 where he served from 1959-1961 as an EN3. After serving on the Trumpetfish, he went on to serve aboard (2) additional Diesel Submarines: The USS Requin (SS-481) from 1961 to 1967, and the USS Cutlass (SS-478) from 1969-1971.  While serving aboard the Cutlass, he was promoted to the rank of Chief Petty Officer (E-7).  After completing service on the Cutlass, he completed the remainder of his Naval career on shore, honorably retiring after 20 years.  He was distinguished for his exemplary military service.  His continued dedication to his military comrades shone through active membership with the Fleet Reserve Association: a community of the Sea Services, that works tirelessly to preserve and enhance pay, benefits, and quality-of-life programs, for all of its members, their families, and communities.

After the Navy, Isaac’s focus shifted from serving our country to supporting the local Portsmouth community.  His second career was with the Portsmouth Redevelopment and Housing Authority, where he was a Maintenance Supervisor for 20 years. With 4 marching band children, he devoted his additional time and energy to supporting their musical endeavors through the Manor High School Band Boosters from 1972 to 1980.  At Manor, he held the esteemed position of Boosters President in 1978 and the Ways and Means Chairman in 1979.  His passion for supporting his children and local youth extended to his involvement with the IC Norcom High School Band Boosters from 1980 to 1982.  A proud member of the Knights of Columbus, Isaac served as a Council Officer, Faithful Navigator, and Fourth Degree Deputy Grand Knight, embodying the values of brotherhood and service.

Isaac leaves behind a legacy of love, service, dedication to family and community, Marie Adams (Luther), Isaac Spears II, Barbara Nesbitt, Joanna Terrell (Bryan), Veronica Anderson (Cecil), Margaret Graves, and Elizabeth Varner (Raymond). He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Margaret, 2 sisters, Johnnie Mae Spears-Cornell and Betty Lou Cross; Aunts and Uncles who raised him Emma, Willie Ann, Roosevelt, Matthew Lucius, Myrtle, Florence, and Eula; great-grandchildren Alisha Griffin-Terrell and Benjamin Nesbitt.  Left to cherish his memory are his sister Delissa Spears, sister-in-law Joanna Haliday, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, a host of friends and church family.  He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.