Lasting Memories
Everett Spiva
May 17, 1931-Feb. 23, 2025
Redwood City, California
It is with great sadness that the family of Everett Spiva announces his passing on February 23, 2025. He was 93 years old. Born and raised in Puxico, Missouri. He entered the Army in 1951 and served in the Korean War. A member of the 8th Army Regiment and 519th Military Police, he was injured in combat. After being discharged, he moved to California to live with his sister Dorothy.
He enrolled in classes at San Jose City College and there met the love of his life, Teresa Najera, at The Newman Club during a social event for young Catholic students. They married in 1965 and built a beautiful life together; he was married to her for fifty-nine years until her death in 2024. They first lived in Berkeley as he completed his training to be a Radiology Technician. They then relocated to Menlo Park. There they created a loving home and welcomed their son John in 1975. Everett started a job at Stanford Hospital and worked there for 31 years until retirement. At work he was known for his kindness and his ability to put patients at ease. In his personal life, he was known for his wry sense of humor and his great storytelling ability.
He had a keen eye for art and design and enjoyed traveling and visiting the art museums of the world. As a young man, he worked at an antiques shop and the apprenticeship there resulted in a life-long interest in art history, antiques, and furniture restoration. He was very handy with tools, able to create and fix almost anything. He was also a gifted amateur painter in his own right.
He and Teresa were a couple known for their generous and welcoming spirit. Together they created a home, first in Menlo Park for 47 years and then in Redwood City, that became the center for family gatherings. Largely self-taught, he was a wise man and knowledgeable about so many topics; conversations with him were always delightful. Whether it was sharing a glass of Dubonnet-“the Queen’s favorite!” Or enjoying his hobo coffee, we remember fondly the afternoons out on the backyard patio, filled with laughter and camaraderie. he will be missed.
He was preceded in death by his son John and his wife Teresa. We take comfort in knowing he is at last reunited with them.
The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a charity of your choice.
March 3, 2025
