Charles Jefferson Spears entered eternal rest on the morning of January 25, 2014. He was the eldest of six children born to the late Jefferson Davis “JD” Spears and Pearl Gilmore Spears on May 9, 1929. He was a native son of New Orleans but reared in Clinton, Louisiana. Charles accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized by the late Rev. C.C. Robins at St. John Baptist Church in Clinton, Louisiana.

Charles received his early education in the East Feliciana Parish School System. He graduated from East Feliciana Parish Training School in 1948.

After graduating high school, Charles proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Sargent. Charles developed a love for playing basketball while serving in the army.

After completing his military career, Charles headed north to Chicago. Feeling the desire to continue his Christian upbringing, he united with Saint Luke Missionary Baptist Church where he served faithfully in many capacities for more than 50 years. He was a Sunday School Teacher, Usher Board Member, Finance Committee Member and Choir Member. He was also Deacon Board Chairman. When his health began to fail, he was given the title of Deacon Emeritus until his death. His favorite song was “My Soul is Anchored in the Lord” and his favorite scripture was Psalm 46.

Charles retired from the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) as a Line Instructor/Motorman with more than 37 years of service. He also worked at R.R. Donelley and Sears.

In addition to church and work, Charles was affiliated with numerous social and civic organizations. He was an advocate for the Metro Seniors serving as Chairman of the Transportation Committee. In addition, he enjoyed rocking in his rocking chair at the State of Illinois Building to raise attention for senior rights.

Moreover, Charles was an active member of Citizens for Action, Amalgamated Transit Union Local 308, Credit Union Board and the Pensioner where he served as Parliamentarian. He made reports about the CTA Pension Fund until his health declined. He was also a member of the Mellow Fellows and Sociable Senior Club and Retirees.

In addition to his social, civic and church affiliations, Charles was a popular disc jockey on Chicago’s South Side. He was passionate about playing music and known for his famous jazz collection. He was given the pseudonym “Chuck 45.”

Charles was a great cook. He was well known for his egg custard pies and fried chicken. In addition, Charles was a gentle soul standing tall in stature, character and integrity and always impeccably dressed.

Charles married Sarah Cain who preceded him in death. To this union, two children were born, Stephanie and Duane. Charles found love again and later married Pearl Hall.
Together, they continued to live life to its fullest with traveling, movies, dining out, concerts and jazz events.

He leaves to cherish his memory a loving wife Pearl Spears; two children, Stephanie and Duane (Linda) Spears; stepson Alex Hall (Angela); mother-in-law Lillian Andrews; granddaughter Adrienne Spears; six step grandchildren, Markus, Walter, William, Alexus, and Alasia, and Demarko Hall; a great grandson, Omarr Smith; Five siblings, Wilford (Jan) Spears, Ceola Spears Collins, Chester Spears, Jessie Spears and Gloria Spears Wright; One godson, Kelvin Bowers (Toi) and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, many friends and his Saint Luke Missionary Baptist Church extended family.

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