John T. Mears, best-known as “Buzzy”, 70, of Wyoming, passed away on August 30, 2024. Born in Bowling Green, KY on September 7, 1953 he was the son of the late Herman and Dee Mears. He was a 1971 graduate of Caesar Rodney High School, where he was a talented draftsman, winning many awards.

     Buzzy spent his long career as a licensed master plumber, working with Martin Belson Plumbing, EJT Construction, and co-owner of Delaware Mechanical Company. As a Harley-Davidson enthusiast, he was a life member of ABATE of Delaware, serving as Kent County Coordinator for many years, advocating for motorcycle safety and organizing charity events, such as annual holiday toy drives. 

     An avid animal lover, Buzzy could often be found in the family’s barn with his horses Wicker and Trube, and German Shepherd Lacie, and stray cats who adopted him as their human. Later in life, he befriended wild creatures in the yard, such as butterflies, bunnies, squirrels and the occasional snake. Because of this, his daughters also lovingly referred to him as “Snow White.” He loved listening to classic rock and country in his beloved garage, at volumes that likely resulted in hearing loss. He was fun-loving and always quick with a one-liner.

     He is survived by his family of strong-willed women, who he hand-picked to care and advocate for him through his journey with Primary Progressive Aphasia, including his sister Pam Watkins and her husband Ken, of Dover; his four daughters: Sommer Sturgeon and her husband Dan of Wyoming; Melissa Barbee and her husband Matt of Rockford, IL; Rebecca Mears of Lexington, KY; and Victoria Mears of Georgetown, KY. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Evan, Mykaela, Kyan, Kenzie and Eloise, and Rebecca’s two dogs: Remi and Georgie; as well as many nieces and nephews. 

     He will be remembered as a bad-ass biker with a bright red beard, a dedicated and loving father, and a moose-eared grandfather.

     The family would like to thank the staff at Genesis Milford Center and Delaware Hospice and Palliative Care for their compassionate care and support of Buzzy and his family during this difficult time. Thank you to Wendy Webb for her dedicated and loving in-home care and support to Buzzy and his family. Melissa, Rebecca and Victoria would like to extend a special thank you to Sommer for opening her home, heart and family to Buzzy and his care.

     Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, September 21, 2024 at Pippin Funeral Home 119 W. Camden Wyoming Avenue, Wyoming, DE 19934 where friends may visit with the family from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. Saturday.  Burial immediately to follow at Barratt’s Chapel Cemetery. All bikers welcome. Harley-Davidson attire encouraged. Weather permitting, fellow bikers are encouraged to join the procession. Donations can be made in Buzzy’s memory to your favorite local animal shelter. Online condolences may be made via www.pippinfuneralhome.com.