Thomas Family Funeral Service Obituaries

Understanding the Importance of a Funeral Home in Sparta, NC

When a loved one passes away, it can be an incredibly difficult and emotional time for families. In these moments, it's essential to have a trusted and compassionate funeral home to guide you through the process of saying goodbye. Thomas Family Funeral Service, located at 115 Hawthorne Street, Sparta, NC, 28675, has been providing exceptional funeral care to the community for years.

A Legacy of Compassion and Care

The team at Thomas Family Funeral Service is dedicated to helping families create meaningful and personalized funeral services that celebrate the life of their loved one. With a deep understanding of the importance of this moment, they strive to provide comfort, support, and guidance every step of the way. From traditional funeral services to cremation options, they offer a range of choices to suit individual needs and preferences.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Thomas Lee Calhoun - August 03, 1961 - May 19, 2024

Departed: 05/19/2024 (Sparta)

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Karen Rose Davis - September 26, 1954 - May 19, 2024

Departed: 05/19/2024 (Sparta)

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Harold Ogletree - February 18, 1932 - May 18, 2024

Departed: 05/18/2024 (Sparta)

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Donald Junior Hunt - June 23, 1968 - May 14, 2024

Departed: 05/14/2024 (Sparta)

Obituary Preview: Donald "Donnie" Junior Hunt, age 55, of 976 New Haven Road, Sparta, NC; passed away Tuesday, May 14th, 2024 at Woltz Hospice Home in Dobson, NC. Donnie was born June 23rd, 1968 in Alleghany County to the late Bobby Junior and Viola Sally Dollar Hunt. Donnie was a former member of the Cherry Lane Volunteer Fire Department and a former CNA. He attended Cornerstone Christian Fellowship and enjoyed fishing, hunting, woodworking and spending time with his brothers and fur babies. He was a handyman and was always dependable. Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Gennia F. Hunt of the home; a daughter/niece, Scarlett Swaim and husband Dalton of Jonesville; two fur babies: Tiny and Butterscotch; four grandchildren/nieces and nephews: Kason Alan Wagg, Steven Rhett Wagg, Teresa-Kay "Bea" Swaim, Archie-Everett Voss Swaim; three brothers: Randy Hunt and wife Rhonda of Elkin, NC, Jason Hunt and wife Kristen of Orlando, FL, Tracy Hunt and wife Sherry of Sparta; a special niece, Kendra Hunt of Sparta; two nephews: Joshua D. Fletcher of Virginia Beach, Samuel C. Fletcher of Patuxent River, MD; a brother-in-law, David B. Fletcher and wife Kimberly of Patuxent River, MD; a sister-in-law, Sheila Fletcher of Elkin; a mother-in-law, JoAnn Fletcher of Sparta; many extended family and friends also survive. Funeral Services to honor the life of Donnie will be held at 3:00 pm Saturday, May 18th, 2024 in the chapel of Thomas Family Funeral Service with Reverend Danny Pruitt officiating. Interment will follow in Chestnut Grove Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home and all other times at the residence. The family would like to give special thanks to the staff of Mountain Valley Hospice, Rhonda Hunt and Scarlett Swaim. Flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to Woltz Hospice Home, 945 Zephyr Rd., Dobson, NC 27017. Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Hunt Family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

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Freelen Lester Bare - February 20, 1946 - May 09, 2024

Departed: 05/09/2024 (Sparta)

Obituary Preview: Freelen Lester "Phil" Bare, age 78, of 7481 Glade Valley Road, Ennice, NC; passed away Thursday, May 9th, 2024 at his residence. Phil was born February 20th, 1946 in Franklin County, OH to the late Edison and Velen Wyrick Bare. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers: Darrel Bare, Gwyn Bare; an infant sister. Phil was an aeronautical enthusiast and had a deep love for Ford automobiles. He was a visually impaired, gifted engineer and never met a stranger. He loved to read, play guitar, play chess, sing and dance. He had grown to enjoy reading his bible and his church family. Phil dearly loved his grandchildren. Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Barbara "Bobbie" Roten Bare of the home; two children: David Bare of Sparta, Miranda Edwards and husband Brian of State Road; six grandchildren: Stephen, Cory, Alison Bare of Sparta, Levi, Laken, Lindsey Edwards of State Road; four great-grandchildren: Emma, Elizabeth, Isabella and Lucas Bare of Sparta; two sisters: Melba Jo Lee and husband Glenn, Teena Bare, both of Snellville, GA; two brothers: Raymond Bare of North Port, FL, Scott Bare and wife Sylvia of Mount Perry, OH; brothers and sisters-in-law: Joy and Jack Woodie, Roger Flippen, Danny and Ann Roten, Sam and Verla Roten, Timmy and Kathy Roten, Steve and Nancy Roten; a special sister-in-law, Martha Bottomley; a special brother-in-law, Billy Roten. Many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends also survive. Funeral Services to honor the life of Phil will be held at 4:00 pm, Saturday, May 11th, 2024 in the chapel of Thomas Family Funeral Service with Brother Hugh Miller and Reverend Eugene Murphy officiating. Interment will follow in Saddle Mountain Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home and other times at the residence. The family would like to give thanks to Summer Hall and the entire staff of Hugh Chatham Home Health, and also a special thanks to Tracy and Amy Bottomley and Kelly and Renea Bottomley. Flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to Sparta Lions Club, PO Box 1002, Sparta, NC 28675. Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Bare Family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

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Jerry Holt Laws - September 21, 1932 - May 05, 2024

Departed: 05/05/2024 (Sparta)

Obituary Preview: Jerry Holt Laws, age 91 of Sparta, NC; passed away Saturday, May 5th, 2024 at Lotus Village in Sparta, NC. Jerry was born September 21st, 1932 in Durham, NC to the late Floyd M. and Emma Miller Laws. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Eadye Jane Laws; two brothers: Louis Donald Laws, James Wilson Laws; two sisters: Nancy Laws Sargent, Doris L. White Carpenter. Jerry was educated at the E. K. Powe School, Durham High School and UNC. After serving in the U.S. Army in post war Korea, he began a 30 year career as a manufacturer sales and marketing representative. He was a former member of St. Paul Presbyterian Church in Greensboro where he served on the Session, Building and Boy Scout Committees. In 1991, he retired and moved to Sparta where he would be close to family and grandchildren. He took great joy in being able to participate in their lives and academic development. At the time of his passing he, was a member of Sparta Presbyterian Church having served on the Property Committee and had been a trustee of the Glade Valley Cemetery Association. In his younger days, tennis was his favorite sport endeavor; later years, an enthusiastic golfer with a high handicap. He served a term on the Board of the New River Golf and Country Club. Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Shirley Ann Thompson Laws; a son, Dr. Allen M. Laws and wife Ames; three grandchildren: Melissa Gambill and husband Aaron, Matthew Laws and wife Iris, Jennifer Shupak and husband Clay, and the grandchildren's mother, Linda Laws; two step-grandchildren: Greg Cameron, Maggie Cameron; two nieces: Carolyn Morhous and husband Larry, Sarah White Keene; a nephew, Stuart White and friend Ruth Ann. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00 pm Saturday, May 11th, 2024 at Sparta Presbyterian Church with Reverend Julie Hill officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service in the church fellowship hall. A contribution to charity or an act of kindness to improve someone's life will honor Jerry's life. Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Laws Family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

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Mary Belle Caudle - January 06, 1932 - May 05, 2024

Departed: 05/05/2024 (Sparta)

Obituary Preview: Mary Belle Howell Caudle, age 92 of 178 Friendly Lane, Ennice, NC and formerly of Statesville, NC; passed away Sunday, May 5th, 2024 at her residence. Mary was born January 6th, 1932 in Wilkes County, NC to the late Clark and Vallie Sparks Howell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jesse Caudle; a son, Ricky Caudle; two brothers: Jack Howell, Jim Howell. Mary's grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her life. She was a member of New Covenant Church and a former member of Maple Springs Methodist Church in Ronda, NC. Survivors include a daughter, Beverly Edwards and husband Phil of Ennice; two sons: Tim Caudle and wife Judy of Statesville, Jeff Caudle and wife Alison of Charlotte; thirteen grandchildren; nineteen great-grandchildren; two sisters: Brenda Howell of Ronda, Linda Park of Elkin. Funeral Services to honor the life of Mary will be held at 12:00 pm Saturday, May 11th, 2024 at New Covenant Church with Pastor Phil Edwards officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Flowers are appreciated or donations may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice 1427 Edgewood Dr., Suite 101, Mt. Airy, NC 27030 or New Covenant Church Children's Church Fund PO Box 43, Ennice, NC 28623. The family would like to give special thanks to Mary's caregivers Pam Hoke, Sherry Royal and Taylor Williams. Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Caudle Family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

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Dorothy Lee Crouse - August 24, 1948 - May 02, 2024

Departed: 05/02/2024 (Sparta)

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Kenneth Clinton Williams - July 26, 1950 - April 29, 2024

Departed: 04/29/2024 (Sparta)

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Daniel Bain McMillan - August 10, 1937 - April 27, 2024

Departed: 04/27/2024 (Sparta)

Obituary Preview: Daniel (Dan) Bain McMillan of Millers Creek, North Carolina, passed peacefully on April 27, 2024. Dan was born on August 10, 1937 to the late Daniel Robert and Minnie Minerva Trim McMillan in Topinabee, Michigan. He is survived by his loving wife, Rebecca Lynne Steele McMillan, his sister, Susie Gregg of Lansing, MI, his children, Daniel McMillan of Albuquerque, NM, Shawn McMillan of Westland MI, Patrick and wife Waynna McMillan of Knightdale, NC, Jessica Smith of Wilkesboro, NC, Stephenie and husband Brad Hamby of Hickory, NC, Robert and wife Robin McMillan of Millers Creek, NC and his grandchildren Matthew McMillan of Washington, MI, Joshua McMillan of Ormond Beach, FL, Amanda McMillan of Ann Arbor, MI, Haley McMillan-Lanski and Deborah McMillan-Lanski of Westland, MI, Nicholas McMillan of Lincoln, NE, Cara McMillan of Millers Creek, NC, Gabriel Smith of St. Petersburg, FL, Karma Smith of Wilkesboro, NC, Willow Hamby of Hickory, NC, Mattie Wyatt of Raleigh, NC and Isabella

Wyatt of Sparta. Daniel was a long-time resident of Alleghany and Wilkes counties, NC, and previously of Naples, Florida and Topinabee, Michigan. He served in the Army before attending Michigan Technical College where he graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering and worked as a mechanical engineer before moving to North Carolina. In NC he worked in the construction industry and held several other occupations before retiring from the Interplex Group in Wilkesboro, NC. His children and grandchildren will forever remember him as a loving father, a man of incredible intelligence with a mechanical mind, and the ability to solve almost every problem with uniquely designed constructions. He always had some new invention or some new scheme that he dreamed of bringing to fruition. Though he had a long battle with dementia, even in his last weeks he was still instructing his wife on the concepts of displacement theory and trying to teach us all to see with our mind, not just our eyes. Dan can only be described as a character, who was ever so comfortable with who he was and accepted all of us as we are, not as he wished we would be. His hugs were always strong and prolonged, showing us how important we were to him and how proud he was of the humans we are. May

his memory always be a blessing. Graveside Services to honor the life of Dan will be held at 1:00 pm Wednesday, May 1st, 2024 at

Sparta Cemetery.  No formal visitation will be held.

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Elizabeth Hartley - July 23, 1959 - April 25, 2024

Departed: 04/25/2024 (Sparta)

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Cynthia Jean Easter - December 23, 1960 - April 22, 2024

Departed: 04/22/2024 (Sparta)

Obituary Preview: Cynthia Jean "Cindy" Blevins Easter of Jonesville NC, Wife, Mother, Sister, Aunt and Friend passed away surrounded by family on Monday, April 22nd, 2024, after a long and bravely fought battle with breast cancer. Cindy was born December 23rd, 1960 in Sparta, NC to Gene and Sally Blevins who preceded her in death. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a Brother, Sonny Blevins, and Sister and Brother-in-Law, Karen and Allen Bobbitt, Mother-in-Law and Step Father-in-Law, Nellie and Roger Starnes. Cindy married the love of her life, Kent Easter, on December 31st, 1997. Cindy's proudest moment, Kenya Jean Easter, was born June 25th, 1999. Not one to boast her own accomplishments- She was a very dedicated dental hygienist for 41 years. When asked "when" or "why don't you" retire her response was always "can't leave my patients". Cindy began her career in 1982 at RJ Reynolds Dental Care. She worked with Dr. Stephen Yokeley, Dr. Steve Austin, and at retirement was working with Dr. Michael Andreski in N. Wilkesboro NC. Cindy missed only 1 day of school in 12 years, that being in the first grade! Cindy loved her Sunday school kids at Bethel Baptist and Poplar Springs Baptist Church. She enjoyed all of Kenya's friends, laughing and sharing in their life's adventures! She loved her BIG family. Cindy is survived by her loving husband, Kent Isaac Easter and Daughter, Kenya Jean Easter, of the home in Jonesville, NC Sisters & Brother in Laws, Patricia and Roy Overbay, and Rita and Eric Miller all of Sparta. Father and Mother-in-Law, Ermine and Candy Easter of Galax, VA Brother and Sister-in-Law, Marc & Denise Easter of Ocean Isle, NC 9 Nieces and Nephews and 8 Great and Great-Great Nieces and Nephews Cindy made many cherished friends throughout her 63 years, all who will forever recall many good laughs and great memories. Funeral Services to honor the life of Cindy will be held at 12:00 pm Saturday, April 27th, 2024 in the chapel of Thomas Family Funeral Service with Reverend Jesse Clubb officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. In keeping with Cindy's wishes, she will be cremated following the services at the funeral home. Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Easter Family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

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Shannon Goforth - September 06, 1973 - April 19, 2024

Departed: 04/19/2024 (Sparta)

Obituary Preview: Michael Shannon Goforth, age 50, of West Jefferson, NC; passed away Friday, April 19th, 2024 at Valdese Patient Care Unit in Valdese, NC. Shannon was born September 6th, 1973 in Watauga County to the late Nancy Smith. Survivors include a sister, Kristy Greene of West Jefferson; a niece, Natasha Romans of West Jefferson; a nephew, Dylan Romans of Grassy Creek. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Goforth Family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

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Sharon Denise Tucker - September 21, 1960 - April 15, 2024

Departed: 04/15/2024 (Sparta)

Obituary Preview: Sharon Tucker, age 63, of Sparta, NC; passed away Monday, April 15th, 2024 at her residence. Sharon was a member of Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church in Mt. Airy, NC. She worked for several years at Alleghany Memorial Hospital and retired from Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital. She loved camping, fishing, and spending time with her grandchildren. Sharon was born September 21st, 1960 in Wake County, NC to the late Worth Barbie and Cendia Parker Chavez. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a half brother, Joe Barbie. Survivors include her husband of 30 years, Ricky Tucker of the home; four sons: Nathan Tucker and wife Tabitha of Woodlawn, VA, Sean Tucker and wife Pamela of Cana, VA, Timothy Tucker of Morehead City, NC, Jamie Tucker and wife Jamie Lynn of Lansing, NC; twelve grandchildren; a half sister, Kathy Campbell of Morehead City, NC. A Celebration of Christ's Life in honor of Sharon will be held at 2:00 pm Sunday, April 21st, 2024 at Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church, 495 S. Franklin Road, Mt. Airy, NC 27030 with Pastor Scott Willet officiating. No formal visitation will be held. Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Tucker family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

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Marcella Ann Chalfant - January 26, 1950 - April 15, 2024

Departed: 04/15/2024 (Sparta)

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Edwin Joines - June 02, 1947 - April 03, 2024

Departed: 04/03/2024 (Sparta)

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Carol Sprague Grime - December 15, 1949 - April 01, 2024

Departed: 04/01/2024 (Sparta)

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Ulene Taylor - April 29, 1929 - March 30, 2024

Departed: 03/30/2024 (Sparta)

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John Horton Miller - October 01, 1932 - March 25, 2024

Departed: 03/25/2024 (Sparta)

Obituary Preview: Former Mayor, John Horton Miller, 91 of Sparta, NC passed away peacefully on the early morning of March 25, 2024 at Alleghany Memorial Hospital. Town mayor of Sparta for 35 years, John devoted his entire life to serving the community. John was born on October 1, 1932 in Laurel Springs, NC to the late Reece and Nettie Proffit Miller. He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers; William, Gordon, Kent, David and Edwin Miller; one sister, Mary-Ruth Miller Payne and special relative; Brady Proffit. John spent the early years of his life assisting his family at Elk View Dairy farm, considered one of the leading dairies in the state, during his management in the 1980s. Growing up in a house full of siblings, John quickly was instilled values of the importance of family and hard work. He valued education and attended Appalachian State Teachers College with a Bachelor of Science degree. Upon his college graduation, John served as a Cryptographer in the United States Army in Fort Gordon, GA. After two honorable years of service, John decided to continue his education at Appalachian where he earned a Master of Arts degree. For 30 years, John served the Alleghany County School system as a teacher and beloved Principal, at Sparta and Piney Creek Elementary Schools. Miller strongly influenced many local organizations and institutions. Aside from being a part of the school system, John served as a Board of Trustees Member and Chairman of Alleghany Memorial Hospital for 37 years, Region D Council of Governments for 20 years and Co-Chairman of the Alleghany Sesquicentennial celebration in 2009. Due to John's exemplary years of dedicated service, he received several honorary awards including Outstanding Executive Board Member, Outstanding Elected Official, and the NC Intergovernmental Relations Award. In 2008, John was given the Long Leaf Pine award by former North Carolina governor, Mike Easley. As John finished his career as Mayor of 2017, the Sparta Town Hall was named in his honor on August 10th. Honorable Judge Richard Doughton stated, "No one deserves the honor being bestowed on John H. Miller more than he does." While John did not like the attention on himself, he was truly humbled by this honor and was a leading advocate for all things Alleghany. Survivors include his wife of 69 years, Angelia Myers Miller of Sparta. Two sons: John Sidney (Sid) Miller and wife Holly of Sparta, William Gregory (Greg) Miller of Houston, TX; Two grandchildren: Micah and wife Graycie Miller of Winston-Salem, NC and Madolyn Miller of Charlottesville, VA. Four step-grandchildren; Lauren Horn and husband Mike of Sumter, SC; Jonathan Hinrichs and wife Shelbi of Palm Harbor, FL; Laney and Hollybrook Cline of Radford, VA. One sister; Theresa Miller DeVane and husband Lindsay of Mount Pleasant, SC. Two great-grandchildren; Harper Grace and John Reece Miller of Winston-Salem, NC. Two step great-grandchildren; Harper Horn of Sumter, SC and Finley Hinrichs of Palm Harbor, FL; Special relatives; Rock and Rick Proffit, Rita Wagoner, Jay Woodruff and Brett Liverman. John is also survived by several nieces and nephews. The Miller family would like to extend a special "thank you" to the Wednesday night Book Club at the Pines Restaurant, wonderful caregivers of the Landings of Chestnut Grove, Alleghany Memorial Hospital, Becky Howell, Rick & Jill Tepker and Jim & Debbie Smith. John's legacy as a dedicated advocate for education can be memorialized through donations made to the Education Foundation in lieu of flowers. You may send your contributions to Alleghany Educational Foundation, Inc. PO Box 33, 114 S. Main St, Sparta, NC 28675. http://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=3YKYHMP4K37D2 A graveside service will be conducted at 11:00am on Saturday, March 30, 2024 at Laurel Springs Baptist Church Cemetery with brother, Hugh Miller officiating. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall of Laurel Springs Baptist Church. No formal visitation will be held prior to the service. Condolences can be sent to the Miller family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

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Virginia Simons - December 25, 1946 - March 20, 2024

Departed: 03/20/2024 (Sparta)

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Dean Sparks - September 12, 1955 - March 16, 2024

Departed: 03/16/2024 (Sparta)

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Shirley Watson - May 30, 1947 - March 08, 2024

Departed: 03/08/2024 (Sparta)

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Loretta Rose Williams - March 02, 2024 - March 02, 2024

Departed: 03/02/2024 (Sparta)

Obituary Preview: Infant Loretta Rose Williams of Sparta; passed away at birth on March 2nd, 2024 at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem, NC. She was preceded in death by her maternal great-grandparents, Norris and Beulah Youngblood; paternal great-grandfather, Bobby Wooten. Loretta is survived by her parents, Hadden and India Williams of Sparta; her twin sister, Dolly Haven Williams of Sparta; maternal grandparents, Ted and Kay Williams of Galax, VA; paternal grandparents, Steven and Bridget Williams of Sparta; maternal great-grandparents: Bill and Betty Williams; paternal great-grandparents: Johnny and Joyce Williams, Nancy Wooten; uncles and aunts: Holden and Rayni Williams, Filson Williams, Abigail and Brad Bittner; three cousins: Adelaide Bittner, Benjamin Bittner and Emersyn Williams; many extended family members also survive. A private family graveside service will be held at Antioch Cemetery in the Stratford Community of Sparta. The family respectfully ask for privacy during this time and request no food or visitors at their respective homes. Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Williams Family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

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Faye Mabe - March 04, 1923 - March 01, 2024

Departed: 03/01/2024 (Sparta)

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Phyllis Jeanette Williams - November 09, 1936 - February 29, 2024

Departed: 02/29/2024 (Sparta)

Obituary Preview: Phyllis Sprinkle Williams, age 87, of Laurel Springs, NC; passed away Thursday, February 29th, 2024 at her residence. Phyllis was born November 9th, 1936 in Pocahontas, VA to the late Lawrence French and Edna Mae Taylor Sprinkle. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John Todd Williams; three brothers: Lawrence , Vernard and Carl Sprinkle; a great-granddaughter, Lakelyn Elizabeth Weaver. Phyllis attended Ebenezer Church in Ashe County for 20 years. She was the owner/operator of Southside Restaurant in Sparta. Survivors include three children: Sharon Higgins of Millers Creek, Michael Atwood of North Myrtle Beach, SC, David Atwood of Laurel Springs; six grandchildren: Blair Atwood, Brianna Higgins, Autumn Atwood, Martina Atwood, Madison Atwood, Megan Atwood; two great-grandchildren: Jillian Atwood, Jackson Caines; one sister, Louise S. Blevins of Laurel Springs; a niece and two nephews also survive. Graveside Services to honor the life of Phyllis will be held at 3:00 pm Sunday, March 3rd, 2024 at Cranberry Cemetery with Reverend Darren Peterson officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the cemetery. Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Williams Family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

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A Facility Designed with Families in Mind

The funeral home's facility is designed to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families to gather and share memories of their loved one. The spacious chapel and visitation rooms are tastefully decorated, creating a sense of peace and serenity. Ample parking and easy accessibility ensure that all guests can comfortably attend and participate in the service.

Personalized Funeral Services Tailored to Your Needs

At Thomas Family Funeral Service, they understand that every family is unique, and every life story deserves to be told. Their experienced staff will work closely with you to create a customized funeral service that reflects the personality, interests, and accomplishments of your loved one. From music selections to floral arrangements, they will help you make informed decisions that honor your loved one's memory.

Cremation Options for Those Who Prefer a Different Path

In recent years, cremation has become an increasingly popular choice for many families. Thomas Family Funeral Service offers a range of cremation options, including direct cremation, memorial services, and traditional funeral services with cremation. Their knowledgeable staff will guide you through the process, ensuring that you understand all aspects of cremation and making informed decisions about this option.

Supporting You Through the Grieving Process

Losing a loved one is never easy, and the grieving process can be long and difficult. The team at Thomas Family Funeral Service recognizes this and offers ongoing support to families during this challenging time. They provide access to resources, counseling services, and support groups to help you navigate the journey of grief.

Pre-Planning: A Gift to Your Loved Ones

While it may seem difficult to think about planning your own funeral, doing so can be a thoughtful gesture to your loved ones. Pre-planning allows you to make informed decisions about your final arrangements, ensuring that your wishes are respected and relieving your family of this burden during an already emotional time. Thomas Family Funeral Service offers pre-planning services, guiding you through the process with compassion and expertise.

A Commitment to Excellence in Funeral Care

Thomas Family Funeral Service is dedicated to providing exceptional funeral care to the Sparta community. They are committed to excellence in every aspect of their services, from the initial consultation to the final farewell. By choosing this funeral home, you can trust that your loved one will receive the respect, dignity, and care they deserve.

Serving Sparta and Surrounding Communities with Compassion

As a locally owned and operated funeral home, Thomas Family Funeral Service is deeply rooted in the Sparta community. They take pride in serving not only Sparta but also surrounding areas, providing funeral care with compassion, empathy, and understanding. Whether you're seeking traditional funeral services or cremation options, they are here to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and any notable achievements.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a sense of closure and help to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, an obituary is written by a family member or close friend of the deceased, although it can also be written by a funeral home or other organization. In some cases, the deceased may have written their own obituary in advance.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about funeral services, memorial donations, and other details.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a few paragraphs.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to personalize the tribute and help readers remember the person who has passed away.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to find out their submission guidelines and deadlines. You may need to provide the written obituary, along with any photos or other materials.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, many people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to take control of how they want to be remembered. This can also help to alleviate the burden on family members during a difficult time.

Is it necessary to include all family members in an obituary?

No, it is not necessary to include every single family member in an obituary. Typically, immediate family members such as spouses, children, grandchildren, and siblings are mentioned. However, you may choose to include other relatives or close friends if desired.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary should reflect the personality and spirit of the person who has passed away. Including humorous stories or personal anecdotes can help to make the tribute more engaging and memorable.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication or online platform. Some newspapers may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals or discounts for online postings.

Can I post an obituary online for free?

Yes, there are many online platforms that allow you to post an obituary for free. These may include social media sites, memorial websites, or online obituary databases.

How long will an online obituary remain posted?

The length of time an online obituary remains posted varies depending on the platform. Some websites may keep the posting up indefinitely, while others may remove it after a certain period of time.

Can I edit an obituary after it has been published?

In most cases, it is possible to make corrections or edits to an obituary after it has been published. However, this may depend on the publication or online platform's policies.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a longer tribute that provides more detailed information about the person's life.

Can I use an obituary as a eulogy at a funeral service?

Yes, an obituary can serve as a starting point for a eulogy or be read in its entirety during a funeral service. However, you may want to consider adding more personal anecdotes or stories to make the tribute more meaningful.

How do I handle sensitive or private information in an obituary?

If there is sensitive or private information that you do not wish to share publicly, it is best to omit it from the obituary. You may want to consider sharing this information with close family members or friends privately instead.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial funds in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in an obituary as a way to honor their loved one's memory and legacy.

How do I ensure accuracy when writing an obituary?

To ensure accuracy when writing an obituary, verify all information with family members or other reliable sources before submitting it for publication.

Can I write an obituary for someone who has been deceased for some time?

Yes, it is never too late to write an obituary for someone who has passed away. This can be a meaningful way to honor their memory and provide closure for family members and friends.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

If you need help writing an obituary, consider reaching out to a funeral home or other organization that provides assistance with this process. You may also ask a friend or family member for support.

Can I use technology to create a digital legacy beyond an obituary?

Yes, there are many ways to create a digital legacy beyond an obituary. Consider creating a memorial website, video tribute, or social media page to share memories and stories about your loved one.

How can I preserve an online obituary for future generations?

You can preserve an online obituary by saving it as a PDF or printing out a hard copy for safekeeping. You may also consider creating a physical scrapbook or memory book with copies of the obituary and other memorabilia.

What if I have multiple versions of an obituary?

If you have multiple versions of an obituary, consider which one best captures the essence of your loved one's life and personality. You may also choose to combine elements from each version into a single tribute.

Can I use social media to share an obituary?

Absolutely! Social media can be a powerful tool for sharing news of a loved one's passing and connecting with others who are grieving. Consider posting the obituary on Facebook, Twitter, or other platforms where your loved one was active.