James Speraw

James Allen Speraw Jr., 62, a long time resident of Glen Burnie, Maryland passed away suddenly on October 14, 2017.  Born on September 28, 1955 in Waterbury, CT.  He was the beloved son of Julia Tysko Speraw and the late James Allen Speraw Sr. After graduating from Waterbury's John F. Kennedy High School in 1973, he attended the University of Connecticut and graduated from the University of Maryland.

He served in the U.S. Army and the Maryland National Guard, where he attained the rank of Sargent.  He served tours of duty during Desert Storm.and Desert Shield  He is a recipient of the Bronze Star.  After retiring from active duty, he worked as the curator of the U.S. Army Center for Military History beginning on October 20, 1980 both at Ft. George G. Meade and Ft. Belvoir in Virginia until the time of his passing.  Earlier this year, Jim returned to help set up historical displays for Fort Meade’s 100th Anniversary Gala.. He even donned a World War II uniform at the celebration.

In addition to his love and vast knowledge of history, especially military history from an early age, Jim enjoyed many hobbies :baking pies for family and friends, gardening, tag sales, art, playing cards and especially loved spending time and playing arcade games with his nephew.

Surviving are his mother Julia, of Waterbury, CT, sister Julie Ann Stachowiak and her husband Joseph of Newington, CT, brother John and his wife Anne and his loving nephew Matthew of Glen Burnie, MD, Aunt Helen Tysko Klemchuk of Walnut Creek, CA and many wonderful cousins.

Visitation is on Friday, October 20, 2017 from 1 to 4 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m., with a memorial service at 7:30 p.m. at Kirkley Ruddick Funeral Home, 421 Crain Highway S.E., in Glen Burnie. MD

The funeral is scheduled for Saturday, October 21, 2017 at 1 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Orthodox Church, 2028 E. Lombard St., Baltimore.MD.

Burial will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to one of the following: National Museum of the U.S. Army, Disabled Veterans of America, Parish of St. Andrew Orthodox Church, or any veterans' charity of your choosing.

The family requests photos, notes or stories about Jim, please send to afuleras@hotmail.com.