Ernest Edward "Eddie" Spears, 66, of Statesville passed away unexpectedly, Tuesday, June 18, 2013 at Iredell Memorial Hospital. Mr. Spears was born December 13, 1946 in Iredell County and was the son of the late Ernest R. Spears and Ruby Bare Spears. He attended Iredell County schools and served in the U.S. Army. He was retired from Burlington Industry and also was a farmer. He liked to fish and hunt and watch all sports especially the Atlanta Braves. He liked all things in Nature and was a quiet man who was loved by all who knew him. He accepted the gift of salvation in his early twenties. He is survived by his long time companion of 40 years, Verlyn Sharpe Campbell, her children, Lois Durham, Johnny Campbell (Wendy), grandchildren, Kasey Gentry (Nick), Kristin Bushey (Justin), great grandson, Bentley Bushey, one brother, Bobby A. Spears, two sisters, Barbara S. Bustle (Harold), Loretta "Cookie" Vaden (Frankie), nephews, Johnny A. Bustle (Felicia), Richard Bustle, Frankie Vaden (Edie), nieces, Angela Bustle, Tina Wadell (Lee), Paula McHargue (Chris), great nieces, Lori McCubbins (Jeff), Kimberly McHargue, Emilee Bustle, great nephews, Lee Vaden, Cody and Dustin McHargue, great great nephew, Dylan McCubbins and one uncle, R.J. Spears. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one nephew, Michael A. Spears. Graveside funeral services will be conducted 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 21, 2013 at Snow Creek United Methodist Church Cemetery with Rev. Dr. J.B. Parker officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the church cemetery. The family would like to give a special thanks to Eddie's Doctors and his Dialysis Team. Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the family.