Edith Sparrow

Cremation rites have been accorded by East Lawn Funeral Home, Bloomington. A private gathering in Edith's memory will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN.

To share condolences with the family, or view her online tribute, please visit www.eastlawnmemorial.com

She was born August 3, 1931 in Bloomington, daughter of Solomon and Edith Witt McMurray. She married Essel "Bill" Merle Sparrow on September 1, 1950, he preceded her in death on September 3, 1990. She was also preceded in death by one son, Cory Sparrow; one great-grandson; three sisters and three brothers.

Surviving are her children, Joni Donaldson of Pekin, Mick Longwell, Minonk, Les Sparrow of Bloomington, Joe Sparrow of El Paso and Steve (Allison) Sparrow of Bloomington. Also surviving are many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; one brother, Lee McMurray of Lexington and one sister, Lois Hall of Wisconsin.

While her children were young, Edith stayed at home to care for her family and raise their six children. Once their children were school-aged, Edith devoted much of her time working in home healthcare and as a CNA in the El Paso area. She retired after 30 years in the healthcare industry. Guided by the Holy Spirit, Edith shared that love and care for others throughout her life and with others through her work.

Edith was an avid bowler, loved gardening and always enjoyed a good conversation with family and friends.

Edith always wanted to help others, even in her last days, she was thinking of others before herself.