It is with profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Lori Sparrow, beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, on May 6, 2026. Her loss leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Lori was born in Covington, Kentucky in 1958 to Jeanne and Donald Schulte. In 1964, her family moved to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, where she began to build a wonderful life surrounded by family, friendship, laughter, and adventure.

While at Chapel Hill High School, Lori met the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Sparrow, beginning a partnership that would span more than six decades. They married in 1983 and built a life rooted in loyalty, resilience, and unconditional love. Together, with their own two hands, they built their home in Hillsborough, a place that became the heart of countless family gatherings, celebrations, and treasured memories over the years.

Lori was a devoted mother to her children, Alex and Lindsey Sparrow, and nothing brought her greater pride or joy than her family. Our momma gave endlessly of herself through her affection, guidance, strength, and unwavering support.

From 1985 until her retirement in 2019, Lori worked as an operating room surgical tech, a career that she truly loved. She was deeply respected by her colleagues and brought compassion, skill, and calm to everyone around her. Caring for others was simply who she was.

In 2020, Lori faced non-Hodgkin lymphoma with remarkable courage and quiet grace. Even during her illness, she remained far more concerned about those around her than herself, never wanting to burden or inconvenience anyone.

Lori will also be remembered for her unmistakable presence, timeless beauty, and iconic style. Her big, radiant smile could light up a room, and her classic (never dyed!) blonde hair was always perfectly arranged - a reflection of the care, confidence, and elegance she carried throughout her life. She had a way of making people feel welcomed, comfortable, and cared for simply by being herself.

Becoming “G Ma” to her grandchildren, Rylee and Cade Sparrow, brought Lori a renewed sense of joy and purpose. She found new life and love in her time with them, sharing her passion of birds and collecting shells while teaching patience, kindness, and curiosity through the quiet moments they spent together. The bond they shared was one of the greatest joys of her life.

Another special bond she had was with her beloved golden retriever, Daisy - her “baby girl” - who was never far from her side and brought her so much happiness over the years.

She is survived by her loving husband, Bob Sparrow; her children, Alex (Keri) Sparrow and Lindsey (Ryan) Sparrow; her grandchildren, Rylee and Cade Sparrow; her brothers, Raymond Schulte and Stuart (Hong) Schulte; her sister, Rebecca (Larry) Schulte-Anderson; and her stepmother, MaryLee Schulte. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jeanne and Donald Schulte. Lori’s family will forever cherish the love she gave so freely, the home she built, and the countless lives she touched throughout her life.

A celebration of life will be held at Sidetrack Bar & Lounge (5906 Millhouse Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27516) on June 27, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. The family invites all who knew her to attend and share their favorite memories - and a cold Blue Moon (with orange juice).

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Lymphoma Research Foundation in Lori’s memory.