By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

MONTEVALLO–Longtime lawyer and fixture within the Montevallo community Mitchell Alan Spears has died at the age of 64.

Spears served in the US Marine Corps from 1970 until his honorable discharge in 1976. He graduated from the University of Montevallo with a bachelor of science degree on Aug. 10, 1979, and earned his doctor of jurisprudence from Cumberland School of Law on May 23, 1982.

Spears received The Supreme Court of Alabama Certificate of Admission on Sept. 28, 1982; Admission to District Court, Northern District of Alabama on Dec. 3, 1982; Admission to Alabama State Bar Association on Sept. 28, 1982; American Bar Association, 1982; The Association of Trial Lawyers of America, 1982 and served as president of the Shelby County Bar Association in 1998.

Spears practiced law in Montevallo for 34 years, and made friends and formed many relationships along the way within the community.

In addition to serving on the Montevallo Zoning Board and Montevallo Park and Recreation Board, Spears was awarded the Montevallo Business Hall of Fame Class of 2016 by the Montevallo Chamber of Commerce.

“The Chamber is saddened by the loss of our friend and chamber member, Attorney Mitchell Spears,” read a statement from the chamber after Spears death on Oct. 12.

Spears business was located at 804 Main St. and local businesses in the area are displaying white ribbons on their storefronts in memory of Spears.

“Mitchell loved God, and his hobbies included golf, playing pranks and range shooting with his grandson. He was well loved by everyone, and exemplified a Christ-like love every day,” according to his obituary.

Spears’ was also an NRA lifetime member, lifetime member of Masonic Central Lodge No. 70, member of American Legion Post No. 255 and Blue Star Salute of Alabama.

His celebration of life was held Monday, Oct. 17, at Rockco Funeral Home. Visitation began at noon, with his service held at 1 p.m. A committal service followed at Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo at 2 p.m.