Stanley W. Spear, Jr., a devoted family man, proud Marine and dedicated advocate for veterans, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025. He was 83 years old. He was born in Belmont, MA on July 9 1942.
In 1962, Stan honorably enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. After training, he was assigned to the Fleet Marine Force and served aboard the U.S.S. Springfield, the flagship of the Sixth Fleet, during the Vietnam War. He was severely injured in a firing exercise involving the ship’s 5-inch gun turret, resulting in the loss of his left hand. Stan’s resilience and courage defined the years that followed. He was honorably discharged with a service connected disability.
Stan went on to build a successful career as the owner and manager of the Stanley W. Spear Insurance Agency, serving clients throughout Wellesley and the greater Boston area until his retirement in 2010. For forty one years, he and his wife, Beverly, made their home in Wellesley, where they raised their two daughters. In 2018, they moved to their current residence in Framingham.
A tireless supporter of veterans, Stan dedicated decades to service through numerous organizations. He joined the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Wellesley Chapter 86 in 1980, later serving four terms as Chapter Commander and as Commander of the DAV Department of Massachusetts. He was a longtime member of the Wellesley Veterans’ Council, serving as its President from 2004 to 2008. His volunteer work included Honor Guard duties at wakes, funerals, and ceremonies; participation in the annual D.A.V. “Forget-Me-Not” Drive; Flag Day ceremonies; and Memorial and Veterans Day observances. He took particular joy in helping at Senior Citizens’ Cookouts, Thanksgiving dinners, and many other community events.
In 2010, Stan was instrumental in forming the West Suburban Veterans Services District and was appointed its first District Director, concurrently serving as the Veterans Service Officer for the towns of Wellesley, Weston and Needham. In recognition of his unwavering dedication, he was honored with the 2016 Chief of Staff Award by the Wellesley Celebrations Committee. He retired after serving as a Veterans Service Officer in Sudbury, from 2018-2021.
Above all, Stan loved his family. His favorite place was simply being at home, surrounded by loved ones, sharing meals, cheering on the Celtics, and enjoying a bowl of ice cream. He will be remembered for his big smile, kind and gentle demeanor, patient spirit, and the deep love he carried for those around him.
Stan is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Beverly; his two children, Susan Plurad, and Laura Spear; his two grandchildren, Madeline Plurad and Caitlin Plurad; his son in law, Joe Plurad; and his sister-in-law Virginia Renick. Stan was predeceased by his parents, Stanley and Helen, and his sisters, Barbara Leidy and Priscilla Spear. His legacy of service, kindness, and quiet strength will live on through all who were fortunate enough to know him.
A Funeral Mass will be held Monday, December 1, 2025 at 11AM in St. John the Evangelist Church, 9 Glen Rd.Wellesley Hills followed by interment in Woodlawn Cemetery, Wellesley. Visiting hours are Sunday, November 30 from 2-5PM in the Henry J. Burke & Sons Funeral Home, 56 Washington St. Wellesley Hills.
Donations may be made in his memory to Disabled American Veterans at https://help.dav.org or Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center at giving.bilh.org/bidmcgive
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