Waylon Lavon Spears

Mr. Waylon Lavon Spears, age 89, a resident of Auburndale, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 21, 2026, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center surrounded by family. Mr. Spears was born April 30, 1937, in Samson, Alabama to Bill Joseph and Lois (Daughtry) Spears. He was an Auburndale resident since the 1940’s from Opp & Samson, Alabama. Waylon graduated from Auburndale High School Class of 1956, where he was Auburndale High School football teams MVP in 1956, also was the high school all American football play and went on to play for Florida State University. He was a United States Army Veteran. Waylon retired after 35+ years of service as a Production Manager for Crown, Cork & Seal. After retirement he worked as the ground’s keeper at Schalamar Golf Course for about 6 years. He enjoyed yardwork, watching TV, football and loved to spend time with his family. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 64 years – Virginia Ruth Spears (2023) and their son – Ronnie Spears. Waylon is survived by his loving & devoted son – Randy (Denise) Spears; brother – Larry (Judy) Spears; 6 grandchildren – Trent (Lindsay) Spears, Trevan (Sharline) Spears, Travis Spears, Trey (Krystal) Mattews, Jared (Lauren) Spears & Jennifer (Mitch) Meadows; 13 great grandchildren – Gray, Everett, Madden, Camdyn, Charlotte, Olivia, Alyssa, Brycen, Conner, Scarlett, Savannah, McKenzie & Aaliyah. Funeral services will be held 11am Monday, September 28th at Kersey Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 10am. Interment will follow at Auburndale Memorial Park.