John Mack Spears

John Mack Spears, age 86, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2026. He was born in Boyd, KY on September 7, 1939, to Mitchell and Ava Spears and lived a life dedicated to faith, family, education, and service to others.

John was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, teacher, coach, and missionary. He is survived by his devoted wife, Ann Sweeney Spears, with whom he served missions in Zimbabwe, Las Vegas, Houston, Dallas, and Salt Lake City. Their commitment to service continued through their work in the temple, where they faithfully served together.

John was preceded in death by his daughters Carlene and Lynette, his son Christopher and his son-in-law, Jeff Johnson and his brother Tom Spears. We find comfort in knowing that he has been joyfully reunited with them in heaven.

John is lovingly remembered by his son, John Randall Spears and wife Margot Spears, their children, Nikki Porter and her daughters Isabella and Sophia; Hope Spears and Randall Spears. He is also remembered by his daughter, Julee Mann and husband Brian Mann, their daughter Rachel Taylor, her husband Matt Taylor, and their children Jada, Jack, and Trey. He is also survived by his stepdaughter, Terri Johnson, who has lovingly cared for him for the last few years. He and was "kinda" stubborn and Terri loved on him the whole time. He is also remembered by Carlene's husband Jesus "Chuy" Sanchez and their children Annisa Telle and husband Donald Telle, their children Bethany, Conner and Evan; Lisa Abusnineh, her children Devon and Lily; Jessica and her husband Ross, children Rowan and Jaron; and Nathan and his wife Krista and their children Vivianna and Floriano.

John spent more than 30 years serving as a teacher and coach in the Houston area and Brownsville where countless students knew and loved him as "Coach Spears." His influence extended far beyond the classroom and athletic field. He believed in encouraging young people to work hard, develop character, and strive to become their best selves. He greatly enjoyed coaching football, basketball, and track, while one of his favorite experiences was teaching children in Zimbabwe how to square dance.

John was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as an avid University of Texas Longhorns football and baseball fan (Hook 'em), a loyal Houston Astros supporter, and, by family account, a reluctant Texas A&M fan (Gig 'em), thanks to his son-in-law, Brian and his grandson, Randall. He loved sports throughout his life and especially enjoyed coaching football and mentoring young athletes. His enthusiasm, sense of humor, and genuine interest in others made him a friend to many.

John and Ann lived in Salt Lake City, UT for many years, before moving to Nibley, UT with Terri and Jeff. They previously resided in Houston and Texas City, Texas, and Milton, FL. Though he called several places home, his greatest joy was found in the people he loved and the faith he cherished.

His legacy of service, kindness, devotion, dad jokes and unwavering faith will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, former students, fellow church members, and the many lives he touched throughout his remarkable life.

A memorial service for John will be held Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the Nibley 11th Ward building of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The building is located at 130 West 2600 South Nibley, UT 84321.

Click the following link to view memorial service live: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88157200104