William Paul Spear
1953 - 2025
William Paul Spear, who went by Paul, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him most. He was 71 years old. Born in Lorraine, Ohio on July 17, 1953, but life taught him to grow up quickly, and at just 16, he boldly joined the United States Marine Corps. Though his underage enlistment was discovered and cut short, his heart remained with the Marines, and he proudly rejoined when he was of age, drawn by the deep brotherhood and purpose he found in service.
Paul’s life journey eventually led him to Denver, Colorado, where he was working as a manager at the famed Casa Bonita. It was there, in February of 1975, that he met Deborah Odum. What began as a chance meeting blossomed quickly into a whirlwind romance. The two were married just a few months later on July 18, 1975, in Bristow, Oklahoma. They went on to share nearly 50 years of love, laughter, and unwavering partnership.
Though they moved around a bit, between Denver and Oklahoma, it was in 1984 that they planted roots back in Oklahoma to be closer to family. When their daughter Tambara was born, Paul found himself falling in love all over again. Though his work as a truck driver often kept him on the road, Paul never lost sight of his number one goal: to provide for and protect his family. He was deeply invested in his relationships and made sure those he loved always knew it.
Paul was known for his ornery streak and sharp wit, but even more so for his warm and giving heart. He was the type of person who would give you the shirt off his back, the last dollar in his wallet, or the food off his plate, but maybe not if it was spicy Mexican food, his favorite. He was always on the hunt for the spiciest food, never afraid to break a sweat for the perfect flavor, and he had a soft spot for banana splits to cool things down.
A lifelong enthusiast of muscle cars, Paul loved the rumble of a good engine and the thrill of the open road. Whether he was behind the wheel or just admiring from afar, fast cars always brought him joy. His faith was another cornerstone of his life. Paul found not only peace but deep friendship at Church on the Move, where the people he worshipped with became more like extended family.
Above all, Paul will be remembered as a man who gave love freely, worked hard, and lived life with boldness and humor. He was fiercely loyal, endlessly generous, and never met a stranger he couldn’t turn into a friend.
Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Deborah Spear; his daughter, Tambara Gable, and her husband Richard; and his grandchildren, Mya and Grayson Gable. He also leaves behind his loyal dog, Olaf, and a wide circle of close friends who were blessed to know him.