Edith Mears, 89, went to be with the Lord on February 17, 2024.  She passed away at home, with her loving husband and family by her side. After battling a long illness, Edith was rewarded with the gift of eternal life with her Savior.

Edith was born in Newport News, VA on February 25, 1934. After graduating from Newport News High School in 1952, she began a successful career at Dominion Power. Edith and James T. Mears were married April 24, 1954, and shared a lifetime of love and caring that spanned a period of 69 years.

Edith is predeceased by her parents, Mary and Willis Hawk; her brothers, John Hester and Robert Hester; and stepbrother Hastings Hawk.

Edith is survived by her husband, Jim, of Newport News, VA; her son Douglas Mears (Patty) of Richmond, VA; and her daughter Rhonda M. Passaro (Jerry) of Williamsburg, VA. She is also survived by five grandchildren, Michelle Mears Berry (Tyler), Barrett Mears (Shannon), Austin Passaro (fiancé – Samantha), Lauren Passaro Dracon (Nick), Shannon Passaro (fiancé – Joel); and a sister Helen Folwell of Newport News, VA.

Edith devoted her life to her husband, Jim, her family, and her Church. Her Faith in the Lord was unwavering and her love for family will live in our hearts forever.

The family would like to thank the dedicated nurses of Riverside Hospice for their compassionate care; and a special thanks to Linda, Tiffany, Malinda, Jackie, Chinara, Jaquetta, and Cynthia who have been so dedicated to caring for her.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, February 21, 2024 from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm at W. J. Smith Funeral Home in Newport News.  A funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm, followed by burial at Peninsula Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Deer Park Fellowship Missions, 826 J. Clyde Morris Boulevard, Newport News, VA 23601.

Arrangements by W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home.