Melanie Lea Spears, 64, of Minneapolis, MN, journeyed to the spirit world on Tuesday, May 10th, 2022, at Hennepin County Medical Center.
Melanie was born on July 23rd, 1957, the oldest of seven children to James Owen Morgan and Phyllis Albertina (Barry) Morgan. A member of Crow Creek, Dakota Tribe of Fort Thompson, SD. She grew up in Bloomington MN, graduated from John F. Kennedy High School. Received her Bachelor’s Degree from Macalester College, Received her Masters of Divinity at Seabury Seminary, Chicago, IL. She retired from All-Saints Indian Mission, Minneapolis, MN. Melanie met the love of her life, George Spears at Macalester College, they were married August 14th, 1976. Their love was eternal and they are at peace together again.
In 2009, Melanie received a kidney transplant from her dear friend Nita Losey. Nita’s selfless gift gave Melanie the ability to bless all our lives longer. Melanie was a guiding light who brought peace to every room she entered. Folks would feel centered after having a conversation with her, when things were out of balance she was an anchor that would ground you, a force of nature. The matriarch of her family, she exuded grace, kindness and compassion. Melanie always put others before herself and gave good medicine. Melanie’s strength was remarkable as she fought many health challenges throughout her lifetime. Her faith was powerful and her love of God amazing.
Melanie was an inspiring teacher; among her many gifts she was always an example of forgiveness no matter what. Melanie was wonderful to everyone she met. Melanie cherished her relationship with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Melanie loved Christmas. She always worked so hard to make everyone know they were important and loved, gifts were just one of the ways she did that.
Melanie is survived by her sons: Gary Spears, Chester Spears (Gabriela), George Spears Jr. (Rhia), Joseph Spears, daughters: Corrina Spears, Melody Iron Eaglefeather (Levi), Chanella Godinez (Alejandro); brother: Mark Morgan; sisters: Mary Ziegler, Melissa Morgan and Margaret Sanchez; many grandchildren, great grandchildren and many other loving family and friends.
Melanie is preceded in death by her parents, her husband George Spears Sr., her brother Matthew and her sister Meredith.
Rest in peace Mel
My Mom was kind wonderful person with a big heart
The world is a lot colder without Mel’s love, compassion and strength.
She was an inspiration to all who knew her.
She will be sorely missed.
I give thanks for Melanie’s life and ministry and for the opportunity of serving with her as Bishop Suffragan of Minnesota.
My teacher and mentor. Thank you for every moment I have had in your sacredness…. You are with your beloved George now♥️
Melanie touched the heart and soul of many. She was kind and thoughtful and powerful. She is SO appreciated and will be missed so much.
Such a joy to have been ordained together and worked together as new priests in the church. I still cherish the pipestone cross you gave me!
A glorious journey to you to your homeland!
Fr Vincent C Schwahn osb
As friends of Mother Melanie via St Mark’s “First American’s First” committee, she and George revived our interest in Native American culture. It started with restoration of the All Saint’s Indian Mission building. It continued on through FNK and helping to serve ALL the underserved in the area. It was so very uplifting.
May Light Perpetual shine upon you, Mother Melanie.