It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Robert Spann, on May 18, 2018, after a long battle with brain cancer. At the young age of 39, Jim went to be with the Lord. Jim is lovingly remembered by his wife of more than 8 years, Zita Spann-Hernandez, and their daughter, Nadia Ameelia Spann.
Jim is survived by his three sons, James Spann, Gerik Spann, and Brody Spann. Also surviving are his mother, Barbara Wood and step-father, Kim Wood, Jim’s father, David Spann is deceased. Jim was the oldest of three children, and is survived by his siblings, Philip Spann, and Wendy Spann.
Jim is fondly remembered by his extended family, mother-in-law, Mary Hernandez; sisters-in-law, Nora Torres and Christina Mendez; brothers-in-law, Obdulio Torres and Reymer Mendez; and surviving grandmother, Evelyn Young. Jim is forever remembered by many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and shipmates. Jim was born June 1, 1978 in Huntington, Indiana.
He grew up in North Manchester, Indiana, where he graduated from Manchester High School in 1996. Jim made a career in the Navy, and proudly served for more than 20 years. The Navy gave him a chance to see the world and experience other cultures firsthand, but he hated the politics that came along with the job.
However, he cared deeply about the junior sailors in his command. He was always willing to help a fellow shipmate in need or lend a sympathetic ear. He retired in January 2017, and settled into a quiet life with his wife and daughter.
Jim loved all things Marvel Comics and superheroes, and displayed his fandom by wearing a different superhero shirt every day. He was an artist until his passing, though cancer robbed him of the ability to practice his talent…and boy did he have talent! He loved to laugh, and would often say he made jokes to make himself laugh, and someone laughing with him was a bonus.
Jim thought Mexican food was the ambrosia of the God’s, and was so happy he married a Mexican woman who would cook all of the tacos he loved! The world is a little sadder place without Jim in it. Though his life was cut short, he made a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Jim will be dearly missed, and is forever in our hearts. A Celebration of Life Service with Military Honors will be at 11:00 A.M. on June 23, 2018 at Liberty Mills Church of the Brethren, 71 North 3rd Street, Liberty Mills, Indiana. Pastor Erin Huiras will officiate.
Jim will be buried at sea at a later date, aboard the USS Boxer. Arrangements are entrusted to McKee Mortuary.
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