Obituary of William B. Sparrow

ORANGE William (Billy) Sparrow CHAPEL HILL - William (Billy) Sparrow, 94, died at his home on Friday morning after many years of declining health. He was predeceased by his father, June Albert Sparrow; mother, Mary Belle Johnson Sparrow; his wife, Emily Bazemore; five brothers, Philip, Leonard, Junius, Waldo, Vernon; and four sisters, Jessie Williams, Maggie Dollar, Emily Sparrow, and Christine Wilson. He is survived by five nephews and four nieces. Billy was a native of Orange County, graduated from Wake Forest University and attended Bowman Gray School of Medicine. He served in the Armed Services during World War II. Billy retired from Blue Cross Blue Shield as Claims Director. He was recognized as a volunteer at the Orange Correctional Center for almost twenty years. Besides the prison ministry, an ordained minister too, he was very active in many Baptist churches in the area. Billy loved music and sang in many choirs and a barbershop chorus. His hobbies and interests included gardening and yard work. Billy had a sincere love and interest in people. Visitation will be at Walker's Funeral Home, Sunday, December 16, 7-9 p.m. Graveside services will be conducted at the Sparrow/Mt. Carmel Church Cemetery, Monday, December 17, 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Alamance-Orange Prison Ministry, P.O. Box 9932, Chapel Hill 275154. The family wishes to express their appreciation and gratitude to Billy's caregivers, James Long and Linda Bowman.