Jerry was born in Clovis, New Mexico on July 8, 1932 to Joe and Audrey Spearman. He entered military service in July 1950 and served for almost 23 years, with more than two years of that deployed overseas. His overseas service was in Europe and Southeast Asia, much of it in support of the Vietnam conflict. He was a qualified pilot for Air Force B-29s, KC-97s, and KC-135s. He was awarded the Air Medal for his acts of heroism and meritorious achievements in aerial flight related to combat support operations. Jerry was also a licensed private aviation pilot and flew the Cessna 320, Cessna 421 and the Beechcraft Baron. His love of flying was a lifelong focus and commenced when he was a young boy. After his career in the Air Force, Jerry became a successful businessman, starting his enterprise in Bossier City, Louisiana. Without question, Jerry’s wife Vadie Spearman was also a driving force for the successful home building, land development and commercial construction company. Jerry’s leadership continued in the private sector, serving as the President of the Shreveport-Bossier Home Builders Association, as a Director for the Louisiana Home Builders Association and Life Director of the National Association of Home Builders. Under Jerry’s leadership, a 10 Year Home Owners Warranty (HOW) was offered for the first time In Louisiana. His mark on the housing industry in northwest Louisiana is indelible and he was a part of the generation that built the Shreveport-Bossier community. Jerry’s respect for nature was manifest in his thoughtful neighbor developments, where trees were protected and drainage and flood protection were a priority, as well as protection of wetlands. His work is reflected today in Carriage Oaks Subdivision, Oak Creek Subdivision, Victorian Pointe, and Carriage Oaks Crossing. Jerry's hobbies included sailing and fishing. Although not a hunter, he was an avid collector of antique Winchesters.
He was preceded in death by his wife and life partner of 65 years, Vadie, and his parents.
Jerry is survived by his three daughters, Kay Pierson (Don) of Baton Rouge; Bridget Jones of Bossier City; and Paula Kemp (Mike) of Bossier City; grandchildren, Jerry Pierson (Angelle) of Baton Rouge, Rachel Pierson Delamain (Jeff) of Baton Rouge, Brooke Mayo James (Jeremy) of Covington, Jessica Young (Curt) of Bossier City, and Laura Kemp Caraway (Clayton) of Bossier City; seven great grandsons; two great granddaughters; sister, Audrey Jo Eggleston (Vern), and brother, Tony Spearman (Glenda) as well as nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Memorial services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 23, 2022 at First Bossier, 2810 E. Texas St. in Bossier City with Pastor Carlton Gilmer officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Hill Crest Memorial Park. Visitation will begin at 1:30 p.m. until service time.
The family would like to thank Regional Hospice and NW Louisiana Veterans Home staff for their compassionate care. Jerry appreciated and loved many of you.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association Louisiana Chapter, 831 Kings Hwy #120, Shreveport, LA 71104.
