Merle Ruth Sprouse

Merle Ruth Sprouse, a native of Holden, LA and resident of Baton Rouge, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, March 3, 2017 at the age of 93. Born July 26, 1923 she was the daughter of Thomas Rudolph and Ollie Whitehead and the beloved Mother of Carol Knight and Mother-in-Law of Jeff Knight. She was preceded in death by sister, Irene Sprouse and brothers Willie, Floyd, Joe and Arthur Whitehead. Those to cherish her memory are her brother, Wayne Whitehead and wife Norma; sister-in-law Jackie Whitehead; Grandsons Blake Banta and wife Angie, and Clayton Knight; Great-grandchildren Mia Banta, Brandi Pourciau and husband, Jacob; Brian Banta; Great-great grandchildren Brantly and Bryce Pourciau, and numerous nieces and nephews, all whom she loved dearly. Loving the food industry, she was owner of restaurants from 1953 until 1983 when she closed The Donmoor and was awarded contract for Meals on Wheels. Retired in 1987 to travel, fish, garden and join arts and crafts shows with her talents. Her life was full with optimism, wit, creativity, generosity, and gratitude. She was a member of Florida Blvd Baptist Church, adored her Sunday School Class and was so appreciative of transportation by Bob Williams and Ben and Marilyn Haygood. Family and friends are invited to attend the visitation which will be held at Greenoaks Funeral Home on Wednesday, March 8, 2017 from 5 pm - 8pm. Visitation will resume on Thursday, March 9, 2017 at 12pm until services begin at 2 pm led by Rev. Joey Beeson. Burial will follow in Greenoaks Memorial Park. Pallbearers are Clayton Knight, Blake Banta, Brian Banta, Randy Whitehead, Conrad Inness, and Scott Shurley. Her journey could not have been complete without the caring love of Betty Gaspard and all the previous caregivers. The family would also like to extend a special thank you to Andrea Davis, Rada Gilchrist, Jules Desselles, Marie Michelli, Stephanie Taylor, Rev. Booker, and Dr. Kevin Kilpatrick.