Gerald Leroy Sears, 80, Orange

Gerald Leroy Sears, 80, of Orange, Texas, passed away on January 3, 2024, peacefully at home.

Born in Akron, Ohio, on May 28, 1943, and raised in West Virginia, he was the son of John Roscoe Sears, Jr. and Marguerite (Lamb) Sears. Gerald was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, and he displayed bravery and dedication during his military service. After the service he went to work in the coal mines in West Virginia before moving to Orange in 1971. He later went to work as a foreman at Bayer for many years. Family meant the world to Gerald, and he loved his own dearly. He took pride in being a loving husband, father, and grandfather. His presence brought comfort and joy to his loved ones, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Gerald had a great love for fishing and golfing, activities that allowed him to relax and appreciate the beauty of nature. He was a member of North Orange Baptist Church for over 50 years and worked for Orange Christian Services and his contribution to the church community will be remembered with utmost gratitude. Gerald will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to have known him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Marguerite and John Sears, Jr.; and brother, Ronnie Sears.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Linda Sue Sears of Orange; son, Michael Sears of Orange; grandchildren, Tyler Sears of St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, and Lanie Roff of Mauriceville; sister Colleen Mowder of Charleston, South Carolina; as well as numerous other loving family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Orange Christian Services at 2518 W Park Ave, Orange, TX 77630, and North Orange Baptist Church at 4775 N 16th St, Orange, TX 77632.

Cremation will be held under the direction of Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.