Stephanie Sparrow
January 8, 1962-April 24, 2022

It is with saddened hearts that we announce the passing of Stephanie Sparrow.

She was the youngest daughter of 11 children, born January 8, 1962 to George and Bette Vallee. She passed away unexpectedly that Sunday morning in her sleep.

Stephanie lived all her life in Eureka. She attended Marshall Elementary K-6th and St. Bernard’s 7th-12th. During high school she was a cheerleader. Many people have commented on how you could always hear her cheer!

When she was young, her parents had a houseboat built at Trinity Lake. Many weeks were spent every summer on the houseboat creating a lifetime of fond memories.

Stephanie married Ed, her best friend and the love of her life, 40 years ago. Together they had two sons, Nathan and Joey, and a cat named Hank. She was active at Washington Elementary as a dedicated parent. Not only was she known as the “Popcorn Lady,” she was also a crossing guard. She continued to volunteer with the boys’ sports as they were growing up.

Stephanie was always willing to help with anything. No request was too large or too small. In recent years, she has overseen the snack bar at the 20/30 Park baseball field.

Steph had a larger-than-life personality. She brought so much energy and laughter to Thrifty Supply, where she worked as an important part of the office staff for 21 years. She would routinely ask the customers about their families and how they were doing. The customers and her coworkers adored her, as we all did.

Both Stephanie and Ed were big Giants fans. She was always current on the Giants’ latest trades and their current standings. If you didn’t know the information, she’d be sure you did.

Stephanie and Ed loved to hit the road and explore. This April, they had the opportunity to take a two-week road trip down to Arizona visiting family, friends and sites. As Stephanie put it, “We had the time of our lives, and we’re still in love each other.”

Stephanie is predeceased by both her parents, her brother Terry and his son Preston, and another nephew Matthew. In lieu of flowers, there has been a GoFundMe page set up to help Ed and the boys with expenses: Stephanie Sparrow and Family.

Stephanie impacted the hearts of those throughout the community. Friends and family are invited to celebrate Stephanie’s life on Saturday, June 4th at the Moose Lodge in Eureka from 2-5 p.m. Cheerful and comfortable attire is requested. Please feel free to bring a story to share about this wonderful lady.

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