Mr. Edward James Sears

Edward James Sears, 65, of Maitland passed away on Memorial Day, having battled congestive heart disease valiantly for several decades. Ed was born in Camden, New Jersey and moved with his family to Orlando, Florida, in 1966 where he attended Bishop Moore H.S., graduated from Edgewater H.S.. He receive his A.A. degree in Criminal Justice from Rollins College. He entered law enforcement with the Orange County Sheriff's Department as a deputy in 1972, while the county was more sparsely populated and patrol coverage extended over numerous municipalities. Ed moved into vice as a detective, where he was shot, point-blank, in the line of duty. His recovery was steady and resolute, never allowing others or himself any level of remorse. He moved into robbery and then homicide prior to retiring from the Sheriff's Office after 10+ years. He was a loyal partner to his fellow officers and will be missed by many. Following retirement, Ed formed a private detective firm and for the past 12 years has owned and operated a cleaning business serving professional offices in Maitland and Winter Park. He is preceded in death by his father, Eddie James Sears, his mother, Margaret (Fink) Sears, and brother Tommy. He is survived by his older brother, Charlie, and younger brother Kenny. Bernadette and Charles Young, of Woodbury Hts, N.J., Barbara and Jim Davis of Wake Forest, N.C. , Alice Jean and Rene Sheldon of Franklin, N.H., Flossie and Don Hans of Haddon Hts., N.J. and Anna Mae Fink and Peggy Fink of Marlton, N.J., cousins Jeanette Fink of Bellmawr, N.J., and Carol and Bob Lemon from Easton, P.A. and other cousins along with niece Michelle, from N.C, also survive. Peggy Sears, who later married Ed's father, currently lives in New Port Richey. In addition to the many very dear and close friends, he leaves his wife, Susan, of 31 years who has had a deep respect and loving friendship with Ed. The loss of her partner and love of her life will be felt intensely for years to come. It would be important to point out that he was also well-known to all close friends and family as a highly regarded and skilled personal chef. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate that you consider giving back to your community by donating blood or registering with organ or bone marrow donation. Lastly, our law enforcement officers and health care providers, nurses and doctors are the true unsung heroes, giving tirelessly of their time and talents each and every day. Take some time to thank them for the job they do. We are forever grateful to them. Friends and family may pay their respects to Ed on Saturday, June 29 from 1:00pm - 4:00pm at the Pendleton Condominium, Venetian Room, located at 1224 S. Penninsula Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118. Arrangements are entrusted to DeGusipe Funeral Home & Crematory, 9001 N. Orlando Avenue, Maitland, Florida 32751. (407) 695-CARE(2273).

Mr. Edward James Sears

May 15, 1948 - May 27, 2013