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Obituary For Dr. Marilyn Slater Spearman
Dr. Marilyn Slater Spearman, 87, of Tallahassee, Florida departed this life on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare in Tallahassee, Florida.
Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. in the Cray Chapel Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, 1918 Oakhaven Dr, Albany, GA 31721.
Her remains will lie in state at the church Saturday, January 3, 2026 from 9:00 AM until the service hour.
"In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Marilyn Spearman Foundation. Please use this hyperlink to the Marilyn Spearman Foundation https://spearman-foundation.org/
Interment will follow in the Floral Memory Gardens, 120 Old Pretoria Road, Albany, Georgia 31721.
Dr. Marilyn Ann Spearman, age 87, of Tallahassee, Florida, peacefully transitioned to be with the Lord on December 23, 2025. She lived a life rooted in faith, guided by learning, and devoted to lifting others especially her family and her students.
Marilyn was born on April 13, 1938, in Savannah, Georgia, to Sadie (Cooper) Slater and James Slater. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Lacey Spearman, brothers, James Jr. and Charles, and is survived by her sister, Eugenia Slater Brown and brother Victor Slater.
From an early age, Marilyn showed quiet determination and a deep belief that education could open doors—not just for herself, but for generations to come.
She was a devoted mother to three children: Kenneth Burns Jr. (Cynthia L. York), Pamela Watson (Terry V. Watson), and Wynndel Burns (Kimberly Burns). Marilyn took great pride in encouraging her children to dream big, work hard, and pursue education beyond high school. She believed learning was a lifelong journey, and she lived that belief every day.
While working full-time, Marilyn returned to school and began building the academic path she had long envisioned. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of St. Francis in 1985, followed by a master’s degree from the University of Louisville in 1988. In 1998, she completed her Ph.D. in Social Work at The Ohio State University. Her journey was not easy, but it was steady, faithful, and driven by purpose.
Marilyn’s post graduate goal was to become an educator at a Historically Black College or University in the South. After completing her doctorate, she joined the faculty at Florida A&M University (FAMU), where she later served as Chair of the Social Work Program. While at FAMU she successfully brought a Master of Social degree to the program. Later, she assumed the chair role at Albany State University and delivered a Master of Social Work degree at ASU also. She was known as a thoughtful leader and a mentor who cared deeply about her students’ futures.
Her work created opportunities that continue to benefit students today. In time, with the support of family, friends and colleagues, the Marilyn Spearman Foundation was established to provide financial support to deserving graduate students at Albany State University and Florida A&M University— ensuring her commitment to education would live on.
One proud moment Marilyn often cherished was presenting her research at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom. It represented not only academic success, but the fulfillment of a dream she had carried for many years.
In her later years, Marilyn deepened her walk with the Lord. She found joy and fellowship studying Scripture with her Christian sisters through Bible Study Fellowship (BSF). Her faith was steady, her spirit gentle, and her encouragement constant.
Marilyn is also lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Brandon Watson (Heather Watson); Richard Watson (Sheena Watson), Alexander Watson (Kyanna Watson), Nia Burns, Andre DuBois (Andrea DuBois) and great- grandchildren, Noah Watson, Hailey Watson, Bella Avery, Andre DuBois, Jr., Averi DuBois and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She took great joy in watching her family grow and flourish.
Dr. Marilyn Spearman leaves behind a legacy of faith, perseverance, and service. She will be remembered as a woman who believed in education, trusted in God, and quietly helped others see their own potential. Her life continues to speak through the many lives she touched.
Meadows Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
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Barry Fittes planted 5 trees in memory of Dr. Marilyn Slater Spearman . - January 04, 2026
Elizabeth Gaskins sent Golden Days Basket for Dr. Marilyn Slater Spearman - December 31, 2025
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Holding you close in my thoughts. May the memories of Aunt Marilyn wrap you in warmth and peace.
My condolences to the family. I am very honored to have worked alongside Dr. Spearman at FAMU in the Social Work Program. She led the Department with integrity and compassion for our students. She encouraged and supported the junior faculty and fought for the administrative support for the department. She always had a beautiful smile and was gracious to everyone. She will truly be missed.
My sincere condolences to the family. Dr. Spearman meant so much to many and she meant the world to me. I'm forever grateful for everything that you have done for my life and career as a Social Worker. I will miss you deeply. RIH 🕊️
I am keeping the family in my thoughts and prayers. May God grant you peace. Dr. Spearman inspired me from the day I stepped foot in her office and asked for my first work study job at Albany State. I will continue to strive to be the social worker she empowered me to be. With love, Takierra Dawson
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May you find comfort in the love and support of those around you. My deepest condolences Bobby Slater Sr.
My sincerest condolences to the family. Dr Spearman was such a huge inspiration to many. Thanks for shaping the lives of so many social workers. Prayers for strength and peace that surpasses all understanding.
💔My heart is broken. A wonderful woman. She was always kind. I thought the world of her. A most excellent example for young women! I look forward to seeing her in Heaven. God comfort, strengthen, and guide her family and friends during this difficult time.🙏
Dr. Spearman was truly an inspiration in my life as my college professor. She will be missed. My condolences to the family.
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Dr. Spearman was an inspiration! She was the kind of person that it made you feel better just to know she existed in the world. I cherish the time I was blessed to know her & look forward to seeing her again in Heaven! Our prayers for the family & friends!
The epitome of professionalism, purpose, and love. Dr. Spearman, you inspired me to strive for excellence, to lead with integrity, and to walk confidently in professional spaces. Your legacy is woven into my storytelling, my leadership, and my values. Rest well, Doc. We will carry the work forward from here. I love you, and I would not be where I am today without your push, your belief, and your example.
My condolences to the family. Prayers for God's comfort during this most difficult time.🙏🏾
My condolences to the family at this difficult time.
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Our deepest condolences to the family. Her legacy of education will live on for generations through all those she inspired directly or indirectly like through her children who also continued her dedication & commitment towards education. May she rest in peace. Sincerely, The Nelson Family
Dr. Spearman was a phenomenal woman in my life. I will keep your encouraging word in my heart until we meet again. She became family in 2005 to present!
In deepest sympathy to the family - prayers for strength🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Thank you for all your kindness over the years. You will truly be missed.
May you find comfort in the journey & memories of Mom, Grandma, sister & family & friends. Many lives have been touched & we will always remember & cherish her. Love you always🌹🌹
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
