Donald Sprouse

Donald Loy Sprouse, 81, of Brevard, peacefully entered his Heavenly home and into the presence of his Lord and Savior onMarch 26, 2021, surrounded by his loving family.

Don was born on December 1, 1939. He was the son of the late James Edward and Mary Edna Goforth Sprouse. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers J. C., Franklin (Bill), Junior, Bobby Joe, Onald (his twin), and his sister Elizabeth (Lib) Johnson. Also preceding him in death were his grandson Benton John Brightwell, nephew Bryan Robert Sprouse, and niece Pat Sprouse Korb.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Ruby Rogers Sprouse; son John Edward Sprouse (Jo); daughter Christina Ann Sprouse; grandsons Jacob Tyler Sprouse (Krissy), Nathaniel Tucker Sprouse, granddaughter Megan Dawn Brightwell, step-grandsons Clint and Will Morris; great-grandchildren Elliot Tyler and Emma Elizabeth. Also surviving are his sister-in-law Patricia Danner Sprouse and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly.

He was an avid fisherman with many wonderful stories about fishing the French Broad River or the gorge with family or friends. He and Grady Hooper made lots of memories fishing on Lake Erie and once saved several deer from sure death that were trying to defect to Canada.

In his early adult life, he spent many fun hours with his siblings’ children, whom he adored. He spent many Christmases visiting each home to take a little gift and see what they got for Christmas. He was immensely proud of his nieces and nephews. After marriage, his love expanded to the new nieces and nephews. Then, he had his own beloved children to share these special memories with. Over the years, he brought much happiness to families in our community: giving to those in need, helping with fundraisers for sick children or families in need.

Many years, he met once a week with his buddies to play poker, tell tall tales, and eat lots of food. He loved these guys so much and missed them after he became too ill to play. These gentlemen were the best of the best, always thinking of others more than themselves.

Don retired from Ecusta from the Shipping Department after 37 years of service. He attended Carr’s Hill Baptist Church many years. Don served in the U. S. Army, stationed in TX, Maryland, and Key West, Florida. He served during the Cuban Missile Crisis, operating a Hawk Missile. He was honored to be an Honor Guard for President Kennedy, during the President’s visit to Boca Chica, Florida on November 26, 1962.

Services for Mr. Sprouse will be Tuesday, March 30, at Carr’s Hill Baptist Church at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Shane Hardesty officiating. Military graveside rites will be conducted by Transylvania County Honor Guard at Blue Ridge Gardens of Memory, following the service. Because of Covid-19, masks will be required in the sanctuary. Services will also be live on Facebook.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Carr’s Hill Baptist Church building fund, in care of Carr’s Hill Baptist Church, 2719 Greenville Highway, Brevard, NC 28712.