Dale Lear

Dale Lear passed away at home on Monday evening, February 10, 2025. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a cherished grandpa.

Dale was born on December 19, 1954, to Garland Lear and Martha Helena Lear in Gallipolis, OH. Known in the area as a talented photographer, he owned multiple photography studios and photographed more than 1,000 weddings, leaving behind a legacy of beautifully preserved memories. He also served as the official Gallia County Fair photographer for nearly five decades.

In 1984, he married the love of his life, Rebecca (Dotson) Lear, with whom he raised three beautiful children: Jesse, Lacey, and Lani. He was the grandfather of three grandchildren: Sienna, Nico, Olivia, and a fourth due any day now. His love for his family was evident in all he did.

He was a faithful member of Faith Baptist Church for many years and served the church family as a deacon.

Dale had a passion for learning and loved tackling new challenges and experiences, including roles as a cook at the original Bob Evans Sausage Shop, a deputy sheriff, a crime scene photographer, and an EMT. He later became a business professor, where he used his knowledge and experience to inspire and motivate countless students. He enjoyed Jimmy Buffett music, reading, drawing, and painting; and he was a skilled writer with a recently published book. He loved tropical weather and had a special place in his heart for Key West, FL, a favorite destination that he loved sharing with his family and friends. His time there inspired him to dream bigger and live life to the fullest. He was especially well known for his witty sense of humor, and he never met a person he could not make laugh.

Dale is survived by his loving wife, Rebecca (Dotson) Lear; his three children and their spouses: Jesse (Chelsea) Lear, Lacey (Anthony) Langone, and Lani (AJ) Samad; his three grandchildren: Sienna, Nico, and Olivia Langone; sister Jean (Robert) Lear; brother Marlin (Della) Lear; brother-in-law Dan (Beth) Dotson; sister-in-law Edy Dotson; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Garland Lear and Martha “Helena” Lear; parents-in-law Charles Dotson and Nellie Dotson; sister Eileen Sanders and brother-in-law Doc Sanders; brother Gary Lear and sister-in-law Judy Lear; and brother-in-law David Dotson and sister-in-law Leslie Dotson.

His visiting hours will be held at Willis Funeral Home on Saturday, February 15, 2025 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm with the funeral immediately after at 1:00 pm with Pastor Jim Lusher officiating.  Burial will follow in Ohio Valley Memory Gardens.