ROCKY POINT — Boyce Malcolm Lear, better known as “Goose” by those who knew and loved him, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was 85.
Born on May 7, 1940, in Richmond County, North Carolina, Malcolm was the son of Joseph Brant Lear and Helen Diggs Lear of Cordova, N.C. A proud American, Malcolm served his country honorably in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and carried that same spirit of dedication and precision into every aspect of his life. Malcolm was a man who never met a stranger-his warmth, humor, and genuine kindness were known to all who crossed his path.
An avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting and fishing, and found joy on the golf course, once achieving a hole-in-one during a tournament. He enjoyed grilling chicken, a dish his family loved and often requested.
He was also a devoted member of Bible Baptist Church in Burgaw, N.C., where he regularly lifted his family and friends up in prayer, desiring deeply for them all to come to know the saving grace of God.
Malcolm was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Robert Gerald Lear.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Ruth Walton Lear, of the home; his children, Sharon Lear Willoughby (Jay) of Willard, NC, David Lear of Willard, NC, and Sarah Rackley Croom (Allen) of New Bern, NC. His legacy lives on through his grandchildren Cooper Blansett Davis, Craven Blansett (Jessica), Jordan Lear, Branson Lear, Elizabeth Croom Seavey (Caleb), Hannah Croom Szczepanski (Chris), Joshua Croom, Caleb Croom, and Jada Serrano. Malcolm was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, Billy Lear (Jenny Sue) of Marion, SC and Frank Lear (Debbie) of Mt. Gilead, NC; many nieces, nephews and friends.
Malcolm’s life was marked by faith, love, and a generous spirit. He will be remembered not only for his deep devotion to his family, but also for his kindness, humor, and the quiet strength with which he lived. His family takes comfort in knowing he is now at peace, held in the arms of his Savior.
Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, July 6, 2025 at Bible Baptist Church with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. Pastor Paul Couch will conduct the service. Burial will follow in Riverview Memorial Park.
Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family here.
