Nathaniel "Nat" Louis Sparrow, M.D.

Nat grew up on the family farm in Chapel Hill in a time before electricity and running water. What his home lacked in modern conveniences it made up for in commitment to God, a solid work ethic, love of music, and the value of family. Nat was known for his brilliant mind, musical talent, admirable sense of responsibility and his kind, humble nature. His sisters might add that he also had his share of mischief.

After graduating from Chapel Hill High School, UNC Chapel Hill (Phi Beta Kappa), and the UNC School of Medicine, Nat served in the Army Medical Corps in San Antonio, Texas and France. Following a residency at the University of Minnesota, he moved to Raleigh where he founded Raleigh Ear, Nose, & Throat and practiced medicine for 37 years. He was known as a skillful surgeon with the kindest and gentlest way with his patients.

A devoted member of First Presbyterian Church, Nat served as a deacon and an elder. For more than 50 years, he shared his love of God and music by playing the piano at church, accompanying hymns for the Vanguard Sunday School class and teaching Bible songs to the young children. Anyone who grew up at FPC knows “Deep and Wide” and “I’ve Got the Joy” by heart. Nat was well traveled, a connoisseur of literature, art, classical music and architecture. However, his deepest loves were his family, his church, and his garden which remained a joyful work in progress throughout his life.

Nat is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Linda Robie Sparrow, and their daughters and sons-in-law: Elizabeth Sparrow, Virginia & John Hart, Rebekah & John Chiavetta, and Meredith & Brian Etheridge. He also treasured his nine grandchildren: Jonathan Kroart; Caroline & Camilla Hart; Charlotte, Hayden, & William Chiavetta; and Virginia, Cameron, & Sam Etheridge. He is lovingly remembered by his sister and brother-in-law, Ellen & Ben Cheek, and was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Jane & Earl Byrd. He will be deeply missed by loved ones in the Sparrow, Robie and Assakul families, as well as by many dear friends and sweet Delilah.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all of Nat’s wonderful medical providers, cherished friends, and supportive community, including the teams at Rex Cardiac ICU, Transitions LifeCare, and Rex Wellness.

On Saturday, June 6, 2026, family will receive visitors at First Presbyterian Church, Raleigh at 10:00 AM.

Visitation will be immediately followed by an 11:30 AM Witness to the Resurrection service.

The graveside service will follow at 3:30 PM, Sparrow Family Cemetery in Chapel Hill.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church in memory of Nat Sparrow (https://www.fpcraleigh.org/give; First Presbyterian Church, 112 S Salisbury St., Raleigh, NC 27601) or a charity of your choice.

Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, is serving the Sparrow family.