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James Bear Obituary
James Bear May 20, 1950- June 25, 2024
ATLANTA, GA - James (Steve) Bear Sr, 74, of Atlanta, GA died in his sleep on June 25th, 2024. He was born May 20, 1950 in Kingsport, TN where he grew up and attended High School.
After High School he enrolled in college but felt called to serve his country in the Army. With his best friend, he dropped out of college and enlisted in the Army as an infantryman and served two combat tours in Vietnam. After his first tour completed his service requirement, he reenlisted for a second tour on the condition that his two younger brothers would be protected from the draft.
Upon returning home, Steve embarked on a career in the fire service attending the Georgia Fire Academy. He worked for many years with the Gwinnett County fire department where he rose to the rank of Lt. Col and Fire Marshal.
After leaving the fire service he started his own consulting business called Code Compliance Services where he used his expertise to help individuals and companies through the construction permitting process throughout the country.
Steve took great pride in his work and held his work colleagues and associates in high esteem.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents James and Edith Bear and his younger brother Roger Bear. He is survived by his younger brother Dennis Bear and younger sister Lorraine Clarke. He is also survived by his three children: Michelle Black, Steven Bear, and Michael Bear as well as six grandchildren.
A memorial service is planned for Saturday, July 27th at Hamlett-Dobson funeral home in Kingsport, TN.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Bear
Sponsored by Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home - Kingsport.
ALETHIA WATSON
May 14, 2025
HAPPY HEAVENLY BIRTHDAY MR. BEAR! YOU ARE TRULY MISSED:)
Usha Tyson
January 15, 2025
I am saddened to hear of Steve Bear's passing. He had been a joy to work with over the years, getting projects to the finish line in the City of Atlanta. I remember Steve has just a great guy, with a friendly personality that really knew his stuff when it came to code, life safety and Fire protection. He will be missed.
STAN SMITH
August 22, 2024
Condolences to the family, this was a good guy going to miss working with him. City of Atlanta Stan Smith
Mary Ann Miller
August 8, 2024
I learned so much from him through my career and will miss him. I sure respected his professionalism. I worked with him in several jurisdictions and was always glad he was on the job.
Lisa M Bear
July 17, 2024
Love and prayers for Steve, Michelle, and Michael on the loss of your father. To Lorraine and Dennis on the loss of your brother. I can only imagine the reunion he had with Roger, Mom & Pop Bear All of you will remain in my heart and my prayers for the days to come. I love you.
JEFF
July 16, 2024
I met Steve Bear in 1986 and ended up working with him for all the years thereafter
In the world of being a good human being, there are none better than Steve.
I'm really going to miss you Steve.
Jeff Herring
Lorainne Clark
July 16, 2024
I am deeply saddened by the loss of you my brother. I will miss you!
Lorainne
Chris & Doris Early
July 13, 2024
Lorraine, Dennis, His Children and especially his GRANDchildren I am sadden by the passing of Steve I met him over 60 years ago & Always respected him as a Real man. May JESUS hug all those that grieve his passing. LOVE each other!! Doris, myself, Emily,my Son in Law Matt, & my three grandchildren will be in Fla. on the 27th WE R praying for your FAMILY
Chris & Doris Early
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Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home - Kingsport117 E. Charlemont Avenue PO Box 27, Kingsport, TN 37662
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