James Dalton Speir

James Dalton Speir, of Lee County, died Saturday, February 23, 2019 surrounded by his family at home. The Lord came first in his life above all and he loved the Lord with all of his heart. He knew the Lord had truly touched and blessed his life. Throughout his lifetime and in his daily journey, he reflected God’s goodness and loving kindness to all.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, February 27, 2019 at 11:00 AM at the First United Methodist Church of Albany, GA. Rev. Scott Stanfill and Rev. Thad Haygood will officiate. Interment will follow at Bronwood City Cemetery with family only.

James was an active member of First United Methodist Church of Albany, serving on numerous committees. He served as an usher and chaired the Great Day of Service. James was well known for never meeting a stranger. His smile was contagious, and his sense of humor provided family and grandchildren wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. James knew and shared that God’s presence in his life was the reason for all of his accomplishments.

He attended Terrell County High School and went on to graduate from The University of Georgia with a degree in Agronomy. His entire career was with the same company, IMC, International Minerals & Chemicals, he began in sales in Americus, GA, and he retired in Chicago as President, Chief Operating Officer of the company. One of his greatest qualities was his ability to make everyone he came into contact with feel equally important and deserving. He treated everyone with the same respect and dignity. James retired from Chicago and returned to his roots in South Georgia.

Upon his retirement, he continued to travel to Chicago as a Board Member of Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL, continued working with the State and local FFA, and was Chairman of the Board of Palmyra Medical Center. James was well known for never meeting a stranger. James was preceded in death by his parents, James Lloyd Speir and Florence Reese Speir, Michelle’s mother, Jane Jackson Speir and a nephew, Greg Speir.

Survivors include his wife, Phyllis Ross Speir of Leesburg, his daughter, Michelle Lee (Charles) of Lakeland, FL, his grandchildren, James Leonard of Lakeland, FL, Matthew Leonard (Kaelyn) of Ft. Worth, TX, Nicholas Leonard of Orlando, FL, his brother, Lavonne Speir (Rachel) of Bronwood, his sisters, Sandra Buchholz (Barry) of Cuthbert, GA and Betty Sanders (Barrett) of Atlanta, GA, Phyllis’ children, Sharon Silva (Danny) of Kathleen, GA, Lisa Kieffer (Todd) of Atlanta, GA, Jennifer Sutherland (Jim) of Putney, GA, Phyllis’ grandchildren, Samantha Lee, Nathaniel Silva, Emma Kieffer, Jacob Kieffer, Audrey Kieffer, Iris Sutherland and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Mary Lake, Pearly Douglas, Ernestine Winchester and Joy Hernandez for the wonderful, loving care they provided for James and Phyllis throughout his illness. 

The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM before the funeral in Ford Hall at First United Methodist Church. Those desiring may make donations to First United Methodist Church, ACTO Ministry, 307 Flint Ave, Albany, GA 31701.