Spearman honored with DAR Community Service Award

When Jana Stewart and the Lucy Knox Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution were looking for someone who goes above and beyond in their service to others, they didn’t have to go far.

Stewart had known Audrey Spearman from the Apple Valley Garden Club, where both were members. Once Stewart showed the other DAR members all that Spearman has done over the years, it was an easy decision.

Saturday, during their monthly meeting, the Lucy Knox Chapter of DAR honored Spearman with the Community Service Award.

“I am so pleased to present our Lucy Knox Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, Community Service award to Mrs. Audrey Spearman,” Stewart said in presenting the award. “This is a prestigious award that represents a state level of recognition for an individual who has gone, and continues to go, above the average level of service to others.”

The Apple Valley Garden Club is just one of the many things Spearman has been involved in since moving to Knox County after retiring as an elementary school teacher. She served as secretary, vice president and president of the local club, as well as a regional officer and a regular student of the exhibitor’s and judge’s school that the Ohio Association of Garden Clubs sponsor.

Spearman has organized flower shows at the Knox County Fair and Mount Vernon Music & Arts Festival, hosts a monthly flower-related craft event at The Living Center and has won numerous ribbons for her artistic floral designs and horticulture entries. She has helped fill the barrels with flowers around the Knox County Fairgrounds, as well.

The Ohio State University grad formed the Rollin’ Buckeyes with her late husband, Dean, providing scholarships to Knox County students who will attend Ohio State University. She’s still active in the OSU Alumni Club, a member of the Food For The Hungry board and the Community Concert Association of Knox County. Spearman has served as marketing/public information chair for the music organization for years, handing out brochures at the concerts, as well as organizing vans to take Apple Valley residents to the shows.

The DAR presented Spearman with a national certificate and pin to commemorate the event.

“I have to thank my parents and family, and the Spearman’s and everyone involved because they taught me how to do this. Help your neighbors, help each other and thank you for honoring me today,” Spearman said.