Mary Alice Sparks

Mary Alice Welch Sparks, 71, of Buchanan, passed away Saturday, January 15, 2022. Born February 27, 1950 to the late Major and Mildred Welch, she was the 5th of six children. She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Louise Thomasson and Faye Boley. Surviving are her husband of 54 years and the light of her life, Carl Ray Sparks, Sr.; son Carl. Jr. (Mickey) Sparks, daughter, Melissa (Rob) Dudley; special furry “daughter”, Molly; grandchildren, step-grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one special great-grandson, Kaycen Dudley; a special sister and brother, Pat Johns and Jimmy (Betty) Welch; brother, Gayle Welch and friend, Adrianna; numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, January 19, 2022, at 2:00 pm in the Buchanan Chapel of Botetourt Funeral Home, 14920 Lee Highway, Buchanan, Va. with Rev. Darren Meadows and Rev. Elmer Clemons officiating. The family will receive friends from 12 Noon to 2:00 pm prior to the service. Interment will be private. A special thank you to Carilion Hospice, Dr Gillespie-Twardy and Dr. Heath and their staffs at Blue Ridge Cancer Care. Donations can be made to a hospice of our choice, Blue Ridge Cancer Care, or the American Heart Association. A reception will follow in the Botetourt Event Center following the service.