Bishop Gary L. Shearer

Gary Shearer, born on November 11, 1964, journeyed from this world on April 29, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of honor, bravery, humility and boundless love. Born to Martha May Shearer and Grafton Shearer which both preceded him in death. Gary’s life was a testament to resilience, faith, and unwavering commitment to his loved ones and his community.

Gary’s early years on Mitchel Avenue laid the foundation for a lifetime of cherished friendships, which he nurtured with care and loyalty. Graduating from Mount Healthy High School in 1983, Gary embarked on a journey of service and self-discovery, driven by a deep sense of duty and purpose.

Answering the call to serve his country, Gary enlisted in the United States Army in 1984, beginning a decade-long journey of dedication and sacrifice. Stationed in various countries, including Germany, Japan Thailand and Hawaii. Gary served with distinction during Desert Storm and Desert Shield, embodying the values of integrity, loyalty, and selflessness.

Gary’s commitment to service extended beyond the military as he devoted himself to the ministry. Ordained as a deacon at Jarrell Missionary Baptist Church under Bishop Michael F. Mack, Gary’s spiritual journey continued under the guidance of Apostle Jeremiah Dugar at Miracle Deliverance Worship Center. Elevated to the esteemed office of Bishop by Apostle Dugar, Gary embraced his role as a spiritual leader, baptizing many and earning the affectionate title “The Immerser ” within the congregation.

In 2003, Gary’s life took a joyous turn when he met the love of his life, Sharon. United in marriage, Gary and Sharon embarked on a journey of faith and service, founding Transformation Life Ministries and spreading the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ across the globe. He was also a foreign Missionary and expanded their ministry to the Dominican Republic. In 2014 he commissioned Pastor Jean Robert Tevin, whom he later Ordained as Apostle, to build a Church in the middle of a sugar cane plantation. This was his personal most treasured ministry accomplishment. Bishop Gary traveled to the Dominican Republic twice a year and faithfully sent monthly financial support to sustain all the people in the village. His ministry became a beacon of hope, offering solace, guidance, and support to all in need.

Gary’s legacy of love and service extended beyond the pulpit as he devoted 22 years to Rumpke Waste Management Company, rising through the ranks with integrity, leadership, and a commitment to excellence.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Gary’s love for family was boundless he was extremely proud of his Son Jarred Shearer and loved and raised Sharon’s children Candice Smith and Sean Abernathy as his own. He also raised Laurene Cooper and cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren Juliana Steele Alanna Abernathy Sir Isaac Smith and Siani Abernathy Gabriel Williams and Donail Jackson (DJ).

Gary leaves behind a legacy of love and leadership, cherished by his brothers, Dennis Ballew, Desmond Dixie, brother-in Law Ronnie Haywood and best friends Brian Butler and Michael Heard and Curtis Shearer.

Gary loved his, nephews Garren Willis Ladarren Willis Desmond Dixie Dashon Dixie and Roneil Ballew, niece Denisha Ballew, and a host of friends, family, “The Fellowship” and church members.

As we honor Gary’s memory, let us celebrate a life lived with purpose, faith, and unwavering love. Though he may have departed from this world, Gary’s spirit will forever live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

May Gary Shearer rest in eternal peace, knowing that his life was a testament to the transformative power of faith, love, and service, and that his legacy will endure for generations to come.

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