Julian Raymond "Ray" Sparrow, Jr.
August 14, 1956 ~ June 18, 2015
On June 18, 2015, Julian Raymond Sparrow, Jr. (Ray) passed away at the age of 58 at home in Oakton, VA, after a long, courageous battle with kidney cancer. Ray is survived by his wife Mary Ireland Sparrow, children Raymond (and fiance Lara Ebert), Kerry, Christine and William; mother Marlene Rideout; father J. Raymond Sparrow and wife Melba; sisters Michele Sparrow and Melanie (Tom) Bills, nephews Lee and Stuart; and a host of close relatives and friends. Ray was a proud graduate of North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina School of Law. A wake will be held on Tuesday, June 23 from 7 to 9 pm at St. Mark's Catholic Church, 9970 Vale Road, Vienna, VA 22181. A memorial service will take place at St. Mark's on Wednesday, June 24 at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, Ray would be honored if donations were made in his memory to: the Jimmy V Foundation for Cancer Research, 106 Towerview Court, Cary, NC 27513 (www.jimmyv.org), or The Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, 750 E. Pratt Street, Suite 1700, Baltimore, MD 21202
(www.hopkinsmedicine.org/kimmel_cancer_center/).
A good friend commented on Ray's Facebook page that "Ray was absolutely the most consistently positive person I have ever met." And that is the truth. Ray was a man of incredible good humor who looked for the positive in every situation. He was a loving and caring husband, father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, brother-in-law, and friend, who never met a stranger.
One of Ray's many passions was planning family vacations. Billing himself, often and loudly, as "The World's Greatest Vacation Planner," he traveled along with various family members to destinations near and far, including Alaska, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Spain, Hawaii and Myrtle Beach.
Ray enjoyed volunteering for his kids' elementary school field trips, and was always proud to return home to tell his wife that he was "the only dad on the bus." Sometimes this meant that the more rowdy students were assigned to his group, yet those students turned into model citizens while under Mr. Sparrow's care. He was drafted to play Santa Claus at the school holiday craft fair when his oldest child was in 4th grade, and he returned for the next 20 years, long after his children had graduated. He was an extraordinary Santa Claus not only in appearance but also in spirit.
Ray was well known throughout the community for his coaching skills in a variety of youth sports. Winning was never the goal. The coveted Coach Sparrow game ball was given not only to the player who hit a home run but also to the player who tried like heck to make a play, regardless of the outcome. Ray's positive demeanor and encouraging words never deserted him no matter how disastrously a game might be going. Having fun was always the most important lesson and his players can attest that they always had fun playing for Coach Sparrow. He believed in equal playing time no matter the talent level of his players (the only exception was for his own children they always got less time a situation often brought to his attention by his wife, with no change in the result).
Ray loved playing golf with his friends and joked that a true hero was not a man who played golf on Father's Day, but a man who managed to play golf on Mother's Day, which he always did. He looked forward to attending the Masters Tournament in Augusta every year, where his first order of business was to clear out the gift shop for souvenirs for friends, family, and later, the many health care professionals who joined him on his journey. There are many members of the medical community who now proudly wear a Masters hat or carry a Masters ball marker on their golf rounds.
Sports played a huge role in Ray's life. He was a member of the freshman basketball team (does anyone remember those days?) at North Carolina State University in the early 70s during the David Thompson era. He was an avid supporter of the Capitals, Wizards and Nationals. Like so many of us, Ray still held out hope that the Washington football team would return to its past glory. Later in life he became a fan of NASCAR and especially of Danica Patrick. When Danica sent Ray a personalized video telling him to "keep fighting," she solidified her place in the hearts of his family and friends. Ray cherished all of the posts made by his supporters on his Go Daddy Sparrow Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/1418863121699402/?fref=nf).
Finally, we remember Ray's incredible passion for life. He lived every day with tremendous enthusiasm and optimism that made those around him feel special. He was a great storyteller who never let the truth get in the way of a good story. He made us laugh, and in the end he made us cry. Ray will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
Funeral Home:
Money & King Funeral Home
171 W. Maple Ave.
Vienna, VA
US 22180
(www.hopkinsmedicine.org/kimmel_cancer_center/).
A good friend commented on Ray's Facebook page that "Ray was absolutely the most consistently positive person I have ever met." And that is the truth. Ray was a man of incredible good humor who looked for the positive in every situation. He was a loving and caring husband, father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, brother-in-law, and friend, who never met a stranger.
One of Ray's many passions was planning family vacations. Billing himself, often and loudly, as "The World's Greatest Vacation Planner," he traveled along with various family members to destinations near and far, including Alaska, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Spain, Hawaii and Myrtle Beach.
Ray enjoyed volunteering for his kids' elementary school field trips, and was always proud to return home to tell his wife that he was "the only dad on the bus." Sometimes this meant that the more rowdy students were assigned to his group, yet those students turned into model citizens while under Mr. Sparrow's care. He was drafted to play Santa Claus at the school holiday craft fair when his oldest child was in 4th grade, and he returned for the next 20 years, long after his children had graduated. He was an extraordinary Santa Claus not only in appearance but also in spirit.
Ray was well known throughout the community for his coaching skills in a variety of youth sports. Winning was never the goal. The coveted Coach Sparrow game ball was given not only to the player who hit a home run but also to the player who tried like heck to make a play, regardless of the outcome. Ray's positive demeanor and encouraging words never deserted him no matter how disastrously a game might be going. Having fun was always the most important lesson and his players can attest that they always had fun playing for Coach Sparrow. He believed in equal playing time no matter the talent level of his players (the only exception was for his own children they always got less time a situation often brought to his attention by his wife, with no change in the result).
Ray loved playing golf with his friends and joked that a true hero was not a man who played golf on Father's Day, but a man who managed to play golf on Mother's Day, which he always did. He looked forward to attending the Masters Tournament in Augusta every year, where his first order of business was to clear out the gift shop for souvenirs for friends, family, and later, the many health care professionals who joined him on his journey. There are many members of the medical community who now proudly wear a Masters hat or carry a Masters ball marker on their golf rounds.
Sports played a huge role in Ray's life. He was a member of the freshman basketball team (does anyone remember those days?) at North Carolina State University in the early 70s during the David Thompson era. He was an avid supporter of the Capitals, Wizards and Nationals. Like so many of us, Ray still held out hope that the Washington football team would return to its past glory. Later in life he became a fan of NASCAR and especially of Danica Patrick. When Danica sent Ray a personalized video telling him to "keep fighting," she solidified her place in the hearts of his family and friends. Ray cherished all of the posts made by his supporters on his Go Daddy Sparrow Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/1418863121699402/?fref=nf).
Finally, we remember Ray's incredible passion for life. He lived every day with tremendous enthusiasm and optimism that made those around him feel special. He was a great storyteller who never let the truth get in the way of a good story. He made us laugh, and in the end he made us cry. Ray will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
Funeral Home:
Money & King Funeral Home
171 W. Maple Ave.
Vienna, VA
US 22180
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
Thoughts and prayers to the Sparrow family. I knew Ray in high school and he was one of a kind. He will be missed.
Ray brightened our lives and made this world a better place. He will be missed. We will keep you in our prayers.
It was an honor to be able to call Ray my friend. I’m grateful for the opportunity I had to catch-up with Ray over the past year. He was and will always be an inspiration.
My thoughts are with you all. Ray was such an incredible man! There is not a single memory that I have of him — and there are many — that does not bring with it a feeling of joy! Truly one of the most special people I’ve ever known!! Love you all! – Carla
My thoughts are with you all. Ray was such an incredible man! There is not a single memory that I have of him — and there are many — that does not bring with it a feeling of joy! Truly one of the most special people I’ve ever known!! Love you all! – Carla
My thoughts are with you all. Ray was such an incredible man! There is not a single memory that I have of him — and there are many — that does not bring with it a feeling of joy! Truly one of the most special people I’ve ever known!! Love you all! – Carla
Dear Sparrows — Our sadness for you is overwhelming. Thank you for sharing your husband and dad with us. We were twice-blessed to have Coach Sparrow in our life. The gifts he gave to John and Jordan still carry them forward today. Everyone was a winner in Ray’s book. His words of encouragement as he held their shoulder delivered confidence and courage. The classic Sparrow golf shoes and baseball cards remind us of a man who loved sharing all he could always. When he was on the field, Dad Sparrow was in the house! Be not afraid he is with you always.
Dear Sparrow Family: Ray was one of the nicest young men I knew. He was always very warm and friendly, and a pleasure to be around. Our deepest thoughts and prayers go to the family during this critical time. May the Blessed Mother and her Son be looking down with pride to having Ray with Them. Our warmest regards to all of you. Bill and Marilyn Ryan
Dear Sparrow Family, We were so saddened to hear about Ray’s passing. What an incredible generous, positive, and warm person he was. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May peace be yours. – The Sanford Family
An awesome man has joined God’s Angels. He will be missed by those of us he left behind, but he will always be with us in our memories. I am truly blessed and honored to have known and danced with Mr. Juluan Raymond Sparrow, Jr (Ray). No words can express my sorrow to his family but know there are a lot of prayers going up for you from those of us who knew Ray. He was a treasure and will be missed by us all.
What a fun loving and generous man as portrayed by his family! I remember meeting Ray at Kerry and Carmen’s graduation party from UNC. I remember his genuine warmth and ability to put others at ease! These characteristics are also visible in his 4 children! My deepest condolences to all of you.
Ray was one of the best people I have had the honor of knowing. And to think he was a friend. He lived his life as a positive person and put a smile on the face of everyone he met. There are not enough Rays in this world. Be with God my friend.
My condolences to all of Ray’s family and friends. He will be truly missed but never forgotten. Ken Albert
many memories! one of my favorite was when Ray was Santa at flinthill. Mary and I had been discussing that all she wanted was a new car. So I went to the craft fair and paid for a picture with the best Santa in town. And when he asked what I wanted for Christmas, I said I was Mary’s secret agent and that all Mary wanted was a new car. And Then we Laughed and laughed. Mary eventually got her new car. Loved that guy. Nicest most sincere man. I’ll send some chili to heaven for you Ray. Love you.
IT sounds like Ray brought joy to so many lives. Those memories of him will hopefully help you get through this loss. Condolences to the Sparrow family!
A true gentleman and a true friend to everyone he meet. It was an honor to know him, he made life better!
I was not a long time acquaintance of Ray but when I was introduced to him he made you feel like one. I know all those who had the occasion to know or meet Ray were greeted and left with a sense that you were important to him. He will be remembered always as a truly great guy.
I will miss his playful phone calls — my prayers are with the family.
Please accept my sincerest sympathy on Ray’s passing. I have read the tribute about Ray’s positive personality, his love of sports and his love of a good story and could not possibly agree more with the description. Ray and I frequently played basketball against one another in law school. I don’t remember ever winning a game (well maybe once), but I was never upset with the outcome as Ray was always a kind and gracious victor. I only had a three year encounter with Ray during law school and was suprised at learning of his passing. I can only imagine the loss you feel. Please accept my thoughts during this difficult time and know that Ray will be remembered not only by you but by everyone that ever met him. Sincerely yours, Bruce “Stretch” Herschlag
Though i only met Ray a couple of times, it was quickly clear this was a special man. I know he will be forever honored and missed by many. May you have peace, Tami Westbrook and Family
Our hearts are broken, please accept our condolences. Raymond left a huge mark while he lived life to its fullest. That mark will always be there for you to enjoy and remember him for. All our love Linda and Rowan Mickleburgh
Ray was my good friend and professional colleague for many years. We enjoyed discussing cases, family, travel and of course, the Masters. His strength of character and goodness made everyone he met a better person. All of who knew him will miss him terribly. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Joe
Dear Sparrow Family, We are praying and thinking about you during this difficult time. May Mr. Sparrow be at peace in heaven and watching over his family. -Schultz Family
Mary and Family, It was such a shock today to learn the sad news that we have lost Ray. Although he and I seldom saw each other (last time was in 2011 at the 30th reunion of our LS class), you did not have to see Ray much to realize what a truly exceptional person and delightful character he was. I remember in 1987 when I was in private practice in Georgia and needed to associate a criminal attorney for a case in Virginia, Ray connected me with one who turned out to be an excellent choice. You could go years without seeing Ray, and when you next saw him, it was like he was your best friend. You can rest assured that God has saved a place in Heaven for Ray and that he is among the saints. With deepest condolences, Jim Milam
Dear Mary, I am saddened by your loss. I never had the opportunity to meet Ray which I regret, because he sounded like a wonderful human being with many fine qualities. May you find comfort in the many tributes to a life well lived, although too short.
Dear Mary, I am saddened by your loss. I never had the opportunity to meet Ray which I regret, because he sounded like a wonderful human being with many fine qualities. May you find comfort in the many tributes to a life well lived, although too short.
The world has lost one of the most positive, uplifting, funny and professional people I have ever met in my life. Our sincere sympathies to the entire Sparrow family.
Mary, I am thinking of you and your family in this time of great loss. Ray had a zest for life that touched and inspired all who knew him. May this void soon be filled with the memories of a life well lived. Ron
Dear Mary and Sparrow Family I am deeply sorry for your loss. While I have never had the pleasure of meeting Ray, he sounds like a wonderful man, full of love, compassion, joy and patience. May you find comfort in fond memories of a life well-lived, and the beautiful legacy of his family. Elissa and Marvin Kon
Just another far away stranger, assisted by the spirit of Danica Patrick, I was touched by the passing spirit of your loved one. Together we hold fast till a new day we shall all know, that which Ray surely already has seen.
Ray always had a smile and kind word for everyone he came in contact with, and it was my privilege to call him a friend. My prayers are with his family and friends.
Ray shall always be remembered for the wonderful person he was. He is now in a new life, and will be waiting for his long time friends to join him! He will remain in our thoughts and prayers; He was a true love to this world.
My thoughts and prayers are with you Marlene Rideout and your family. May God comfort you all during this difficult time . . . Much Love! <3
Ray was my family and business lawyer and friend. He taught me to fear nothing in my business when I am on the right side of an argument. He helped me for twenty years with calmness and enthusiasm. He said he learned a lot from me but it was quite the opposite. I learned about a man who was admired for so many things. He taught me so much with grace and class. He was an intellect, a fierce worker and dedicated not only to his clients causes but to their well being. He was the best of the best. He was and always will be my hero. Part of me died and what lives on is a great legacy of how to be a family man, a professional, a colleague and a great friend.
Ray was my family and business lawyer and friend. He taught me to fear nothing in my business when I am on the right side of an argument. He helped me for twenty years with calmness and enthusiasm. He said he learned a lot from me but it was quite the opposite. I learned about a man who was admired for so many things. He taught me so much with grace and class. He was an intellect, a fierce worker and dedicated not only to his clients causes but to their well being. He was the best of the best. He was and always will be my hero. Part of me died and what lives on is a great legacy of how to be a family man, a professional, a colleague and a great friend.
Ray was my family and business lawyer and friend. He taught me to fear nothing in my business when I put me on the path to be on the right side of any issue. He was my council for twenty years with calmness, and enthusiasm. He said he learned a lot from me but it was quite the opposite. I learned about a man who was admired for so many things. He taught me so much with grace and class. He was an intellect, a fierce worker and dedicated not only to his clients causes but to their well being. He was the best of the best. He was and always will be my hero. Part of me died and what lives on is a great legacy of how to be a family man, a professional, a colleague and a great friend. In these last years, I was in the fight of my life. Ray navigated me through through to fruition. We won Ray! You won! You put together a team that was again on the honorable side. The Honorable Raymond Sparrow Jr., Esq. Thank God for You!
Ray was my family and business lawyer and friend. He taught me to fear nothing in my business when I put me on the path to be on the right side of any issue. He was my council for twenty years with calmness, and enthusiasm. He said he learned a lot from me but it was quite the opposite. I learned about a man who was admired for so many things. He taught me so much with grace and class. He was an intellect, a fierce worker and dedicated not only to his clients causes but to their well being. He was the best of the best. He was and always will be my hero. Part of me died when I heard this news. What lives on is a great legacy of how to be a family man, a professional, a colleague and a great friend. In these last years, I was in the fight of my life. Ray navigated me through to fruition. We won Ray! You won! You put together a team that was again on the honorable side. Ray only fought for what he believed in. The Honorable Raymond Sparrow Jr., Esq. Thank God for You!
RIDOUT, SORRY TO LEARN OF YOUR SON DEATH LOVE AN PRAYERS TO YOU AN THE FAMILY. CORA HOCUTT
Ray my great friend. Thank you for the friendship, the professionalism and for making me not sweat the small stuff! Your smile and positive ways will live on in all of us. My heartfelt condolences to your family. You often told me how happy you were that you had the family vacations and how proud you are of your family. No regrets you said. See you in Augusta sometime.