She was born on Jan. 26, 1923, in Waterville, Conn., and grew up in Naugatuck, Conn. She was the first born and had two younger brothers. She graduated from Naugatuck High School and then attended Wellsley College where she majored in music. She acquired her master’s degree from the University of Chicago.
She was a master cellist, organist, pianist, and spent her life devoted to her music. In 1948, she married her husband of 59 years, Edward Speare. They raised five children in Michigan, where her husband taught in a small college town. She supported him in all aspects of his academic career. They enjoyed the “college life” together and contributed to it greatly. She was nourished and supported there by many wonderful lifelong friends.
She lived a remarkable life, more than 70 years a professional cellist, a wonderful artist, an avid reader, an excellent cook, gardener, and many other talents. She always had a strong interest in the creative fields, and found ways to express these domains, even in the small town she lived in. She played the cello in numerous symphony orchestras, taught cello to high school students, and hosted parties for string quartets in her home. She was the church choir director for many years and was active in the church. She taught children’s art in her home, and she gave cooking classes to the adult ed students. She had a strong interest in health foods and volunteered at the local food co-op. In her sixties, she coached for the women’s college tennis team and was once elected “Coach of the Year,” an accomplishment she was very proud of.
At the time of Edward’s retirement, they moved to Harpswell, Maine, to be closer to family and their beloved summer home at Popham Beach. There she entertained many friends and family over the years, hosting wonderful lobster dinners complete with her homemade rolls and blueberry pies.
She was cherished by her five children, 11 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, a her brother Norris Follett, and her grandson Kim Speare. She is survived by her brother LeBaron Follett of Kentucky. A celebration of her life will be held this summer at the beach.
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