Mary A (Lockwood) Spear

Mary A. Spear, 88 of Sugarloaf passed away on Saturday, June 14, 2025. Born May 14, 1937 in Hazleton  and raised in Tresckow, she was the daughter of the late Maurice and Anna (Carbone) Lockwood, and  loving wife of the late William J. Spear, pharmacist and owner of Hazle Drugs and Hazle Compounding.  

Mary was a dedicated academic with a deep passion for education and had an accomplished nursing  career. Mary graduated with honors among the top 10 of her class from West Hazleton High School in  1955. She attended the Hazleton State General Hospital School of Nursing, where she was recognized  with awards for her exceptional efficiency and skill in nursing. Mary went on to earn her Bachelors of  Science in Education with a Specialization in Public School Nursing from Bloomsburg University in 1971,  achieving the highest average ever recorded in the program at that time.  

A lifelong learner, Mary continued her education, and in 1981 earned her Master’s Degree in School  Counseling from the University of Scranton.  

Mary’s lifelong commitment to nursing was evident throughout her career, from her early work at the  Keystone Job Corps, to her 18 years of devoted service as a school nurse in the Hazleton Area School  District. Mary was always willing to lend a hand to those in need. Within the district, Mary served as  Chairperson of the Nursing Department and Co-Counselor for School Health. She taught a parenting  class for pregnant high school students and young mothers, offering guidance, support, and  encouragement to help them complete their education.  

Mary was honored with the Luzerne County Alcohol and Drug Educators Award in 1994, a testament to  her impactful work in health education. She proudly served as a Board Member for several organizations,  including the Keystone Job Corps Community Relations Board, the Hazleton Area School District  Community Advisory Board, and Sorento Gardens. Additionally, she was both a Board Member and  Officer of the Northeast Region PSSA Pupil Personnel Board and a past recipient of the YMCA Pearl  Award. Mary also lent her time and talents to the Mistletoe Ball Committee for many years.  

Although Mary enjoyed working with the teachers, nurses, students and her friends in the Hazleton Area  School District, what she enjoyed most was her husband, Bill, who was not only the love of her life, but  also her best friend.  

Mary and her husband Bill were married for 64 fantastic and fun filled years. A stronger bond between two  souls would be hard to find. They were lucky to have one another and enjoyed each and every moment  together. The years she spent with Bill, her children, and especially their grandchildren, were the most  cherished and important to her. The accomplishments of their children and grandchildren made her a  happy wife, mother, and grandmother. Their memorable times spent at their LBI beach house and family  vacations to Key West gave her the most enjoyment of her life. So, we say goodbye to Mary and  appreciate all she did for all of us and all the good times we shared together.  

Preceding Mary in death in addition to her parents and husband, was her brother, Dominick Lockwood. 

Surviving Mary is her son; Bill and his wife Marylynne. Daughter; Patrice and her husband Jeff Myer. She  was the cherished “Nanny” to seven grandchildren; Billy, Evan, Zander, Alyssa, Lindsey, Jenna, and  Bridget. Great grandchildren; Quinn, Lorenzo, Rylee, and one on the way. She is also survived by her  sister; Thelma Mashack, Richmond Va. Several nieces and nephews also survive. 

Services and burial will be held at the convenience of the family. 

Donations in memory of Mary, may be made to charity of choice. 

Arrangements under the direction of the Joseph B. Conahan Funeral Home, Hazleton.

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