Mrs. Wanda Jean Sparks Cates 78, passed away peacefully at her home on January 16, 2025.

Wanda was born January 28, 1946, in Rockingham County, the daughter of the late William Thomas and Annie Maude Perdue Sparks.

Wanda is survived by her sons Robert Michael (Lori), William Richard (Cindy), Ronald Brian (Susana) and a cherished grandmother and great grandmother to: Cassey (Christopher), Michael, Katie (Michael), Lilly, John (Alanna), Matthew (Hanna), Grace, Sophie, Cayden, Charley and McKenna whom she loved with unwavering devotion and fierce loyalty. In their eyes, she was the best mother, grandmother and great grandmother ever created by God.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Richard Burrus Cates, sister Doris Sparks Marion and brother-in-law William Norman Marion.

She retired after more than 30 years of compassionate care and dedicated service at Wesley Long Hospital, where her commitment to helping others left an enduring impact. Wanda was a true force of nature — a stick of dynamite with strong convictions who never backed down or turned away from what she believed in. She loved her family with complete devotion and loyalty, always putting their needs and happiness above her own.

In honor of Wanda's cherished sister, Doris Sparks Marion, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association in lieu of flowers.

Wanda's indomitable spirit, unconditional love, and steadfast dedication to her family and community will forever be remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at George Brothers Funeral Service conducted by Reverend Steve Walsh. A private family committal service will follow in Guilford Memorial Park.