Idamae Spear

Idamae Spear, 108, of Swanton, MD, passed away peacefully at home on December 7, 2025. Born November 13, 1917, in Dayton, OH, she was the daughter of the late William and Flora (Zender) Obermeier.

Idamae graduated from high school in Wilmette, IL, and attended DePaul University in Chicago. In 1940, she married the love of her life, Ed Spear, who preceded her in death in 2008. She enjoyed a long career as a school teacher, first with the Catholic Archdiocese of Joliet and later retiring from the Diocese of Phoenix, AZ. Idamae was known for her extraordinary kindness and gentle spirit. When asked the secret to her long and happy life, she always answered, "Be kind to everyone." That simple philosophy defined her and will be how she is remembered. In her youth she was very athletic, an avid tennis player and golfer. She also loved to travel, especially to visit family across the country.

She is survived by her children, Bob Spear and wife Mary of Swanton, MD Kathleen Fargione and husband Mike of Minnesota, Cynthia Tehan and husband Tim of North Carolina, and Paul Spear and wife Brenda of Arizona; ten grandchildren; and nineteen great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her siblings; Helen Louise, Thomas Francis, Rosemary, and Mildred.

Idamae's request for cremation was honored. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 2 PM, at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in Oakland, MD.

The Fredlock & Fenner Funeral Home, P.A. -Oakland Chapel, is honored to serve the Spear family.