Cleo Speegle Lackey

Emily Cleo Speegle Lackey, age 73, went to her heavenly home on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. Cleo was born January 27, 1952. After graduating from Woodlawn High School, Cleo pursued a degree in Library Science at the University of Alabama where she later achieved a master’s degree as well. Cleo enjoyed a long and fulfilling career as a librarian at Brookwood Forest Elementary for 51 years and is recognized as the system’s longest serving employee. Prior to her time as a school librarian, Cleo worked as a librarian at the O’Neal Library in Mountain Brook.

Cleo was preceded in death by her parents, John Harold Speegle and Elvyn Scott Speegle; her beloved husband, Joseph Michael Lackey; her sister-in-law, Donna Thompson Speegle; and her nephew, Jon Paul Speegle. She is survived by her twin brothers, Jerome Alan Speegle (Bess) and Wayne Morris Speegle; her nephews, Chad Speegle and Cris Speegle (Lisa); her nieces, Lisa Whittington (Wilson) and Laurie Morrison (Jeff); and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews: Hayden, Porter, Laura, Mary Grace, Samantha, Caroline, John Lem, and Elisabeth.

Cleo will be fondly remembered for her deep love of reading and her cherished book collection, which she often delighted in sharing as thoughtful gifts. She loved serving her students and dedicated herself to imparting the love of reading on the children in her library. Cleo had a passion for travel and especially treasured attending Indy 500, NASCAR, and Formula 1 races with her family. She was a member of Shades Mountain Baptist Church and attended Community Bible Study. Cleo was a lifelong member of both the National Corvette Museum, Beatrix Potter Society, and the George Washington Mount Vernon Association. Above all, she adored her family and was always devoted to making sure everyone felt cared for and supported.

A public visitation will be held at from 2:00-4:00 on Sunday, October 26th at Ridout’s Valley Chapel in Homewood. A private family graveside service will be held at Forest Hills Cemetery on Monday.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made in honor of Cleo to the Brookwood Forest Library at 3701 South Brookwood Road, Mtn. Brook, AL 35223.