"Man oh man Ms Lynne, you had the best laugh. I don?t think there is anyone that could hear that belly chuckle of yours and not join in no matter what was going on with them. When I met your daughter, we just clicked. And you opened your doors to me like I was one of your own from the start. And definitely yelled at me like I was too. Oh I hope you?re resting easy knowing all you accomplished. Take care up there "
In loving memory of
Lynne Spearman
June 9, 1964 - January 3, 2025
Lynne Laverne Spearman was born on June 9, 1964, to Joyce Laverne Spearman and Charlton Eugene Slater, who both preceded her in death. Lynne was the oldest of eight siblings. Her sister Lori Margo and brother Daniel Jefferson preceded her in death.
Lynne's early education began at Scanlan Elementary, followed by Carver Area High School where she was a part of the gifted and talented program and Project Challenge, earning college credits while still in high school. Lynne went on to attend Chicago State University, majoring in accounting. Her love of learning and dedication to education was evident throughout her life. Lynne worked as a tutor at Chicago State University. In her free time on campus, she could often be found playing dominoes, cards and shooting pool in the Robinson Center, engaging in friendly wagers with old friends.
In 1984, Lynne met and married a young soldier, Marvin Gist. That union was blessed with a beautiful daughter, Schari Shantell. Lynne's commitment to family was unwavering, and she devoted herself to being a loving mother, sister, aunt, cousin, and caretaker. To Lynne, family was everything, and she was always willing to step up when a need arose. From becoming a caretaker to her ailing grandmother Johnnie Spearman, to fostering her niece and nephews Derrick, Justin, Dessie, and Deandre (Ricky LOL).
A born protector, Lynne, felt it was her duty to ensure the safety of her loved ones. She once famously shielded her baby brother from a flying brick, taking the full impact upon herself-a testament to her selflessness and devotion to her family. Whether you needed her to "pull up", a shoulder to lean on, or a place to live, Lynne was always there for her family. Lynne was indeed a superhero!
Lynne's talents extended beyond her devotion to family. A natural with numbers, she began her banking career at The Bank of Lincolnwood, where her hard work and dedication led her to rise from teller to supervisor and keyholder. She took immense pride in her work, which mirrored her deep commitment to helping others.
Lynne's love of food and beautiful things led her to pursue a degree in Culinary Arts from The Illinois Institute of Art, graduating in 2011. Thanksgiving was her time to shine. Lynne loved sampling the oyster dressing and sneaking a taste of buttercream frosting. She looked forward to holidays every year. One year, she famously brought a can of cranberry sauce that was the size of a small toddler! Her culinary creations brought joy to countless holidays, and she took special joy in making her sister Naja's home ''The Hub" for all family gatherings.
In addition to her many talents, Lynne was a proud AA sponsor and a graduate of The Sister's House of Chicago. It was there that she made the decision to start anew, which led her to relocate to Ames, Iowa.
Lynne's faith was an integral part of her life. She became a member of New Life Church of Ames, re-dedicating her life to Christ. Lynne served in many ministries and found special joy in working with the children of the church, a trait she clearly inherited from her mother Joyce. Her devotion to service was unwavering, and she was a faithful, active member, always ready to lend a hand whenever the doors of the church were open.
Lynne became a beloved resident of the Regency Courts Apartment Community. While there, she assumed many roles, including preparing the monthly newsletter, organizing social events, and helping the seniors of the building. Lynne also dedicated countless hours each year assisting seniors with filing their taxes, ensuring that those on fixed incomes received the help they needed.
In December of 2024, Lynne celebrated 19 years of sobriety, of which she was very proud.
On the morning of January 3, 2025, Lynne got up with plans for her day, but God had greater plans. Lynne Laverne Spearman was called home to be with The Lord and her assignment on Earth was complete.
Though Lynne's time on this earth was far too short, her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched. She leaves behind a trail of love, laughter, and memories that will never fade.
Lynne is survived by her daughter, Schari; three grandsons, Jasean, Camren, and Javon; five siblings, Lorenzo (Laura), Dionne, Jerome (Valerie), Naja, and Bernadette (Julian); two aunts, Florence and Sarah; one uncle, William Monroe Jr.; Forever Friends Marvin and Lois, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family and friends. Lynne's life may have ended, but her spirit and the love she shared will continue to guide and inspire all who knew her.
Rest in peace, Lynne-you will be forever missed and our love for you will remain deeply engraved in our hearts.