Bedford – Richard “Rick” W. Spires, 78, of Bedford, passed away on Monday, February 10, 2025, at his residence.

Born April 29, 1946, in Lawrence Co., he was the son of Ervin and Eva Spires. He married Erin Berry and she survives. He was a machinist at General Motors and later a health teacher at Oolitic Middle School. He spent a lifetime teaching and coaching, helping people to be and do their best. He loved I.U. and B.N.L. basketball and never met a stranger.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Erin, of Bedford; a daughter, Ann Kern and husband, Dave, of Bedford; a son, Joey Spires and wife, Shannon, of Bedford; grandchildren, Mason Spires and wife, Ashlynn, Max Spires, Madalyn Spires, Lexi Kern, Andrew (Jaclyn)Kern, Timothy Kern and wife, Brittany, and Melody Kern(Dom Kimble); great-grandchildren, Bryson Kern, Journey Kimble, Paxton Kimble, and Harper Kern. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Gaylord, Donnie, and Bobby “Runt”; four sisters, Jewell JunEtta, Mary Ann, and Joyce.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 pm on Saturday, February 22nd in the Elmwood Chapel of the Day & Carter Mortuary with Bro. Marty Speer officiating. Visitation will be from 11:00 am until the hour of service on Saturday at the Day & Carter Mortuary. Family and friends may express condolences at www.daycarter.com.