John F. Speel 81, a resident of Briarcliffe Gardens in Johnston, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on September 28, 2024. He was the loving husband of the late Bette R. (Hirons) Speel, they had been married for 59 years.
Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Duncan and Vera (Holdgate) Speel.
John served in the US Airforce in Okinawa Japan, and back in the United States in Michigan. After the Airforce he became a Master Plumber before joining General Dynamic Electric Boat Division retiring after 31 years. After his retirement John and Bette enjoyed living in Warwick, RI as well as Lehigh Acres, Florida. He loved golfing, gardening, taking care of his lawn and being with his family.
He was the loving father of Laurie Gremour (Tim), and John Speel (Lisa), the grandfather Joshua Speel, Timothy Gremour, Nathan Gremour, and Noah Gremour. He was the brother of Duncan Speel (Jeanne). He also leaves many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.
His Funeral Service will be held on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 10 a.m. from the Barrett & Cotter Funeral Home, 1328 Warwick, Avenue, Warwick. Visitation will be on Thursday, from 4 to 7 p.m. Burial with Military Honors will be in Pawtuxet Memorial Park.
The family would like to thank the Briarcliffe Nursing staff and activities staff as they really were his family also and took great care of him. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association.
