Obituaries

Jeanette “Jeanie” Sparagna (formerly Lauver, McConnell) passed away peacefully on September 29th. She was preceded in death by her husband Elmer Sparagna, and by her loving parents Betty and Clifford Lauver. She is survived by her brother Paul, her son Matthew and his wife Cristina, her daughter Christie and her husband Jerry, and her beloved grandchild Ollie.

Jeanie was a kind soul. Her passion in life was taking care of others – no matter if human, feline, canine, or fowl (she particularly enjoyed talking to pelicans at the beach). Nearly everyone she met became her fast friend, and she truly and deeply cared for each one of them. She found joy in writing poetry and self-published a number of books, including a two-volume autobiography based on questions from her family.

Jeanie spent a majority of her life in Northern Virginia, where she raised her children and helped raise all of her children’s friends. She worked at the courthouse in Fairfax City and developed a life-long friendship with Shirley Jones. She moved to Wilmington N.C. to tend to her mother and fell in love with Elmer, a WWII veteran and postman. Elmer passed in 2009, and Jeanie moved to Edmonds W.A. to live with her daughter. She cherished her time doting over Ollie, cuddling with her ever-faithful dog Mia, talking with her cousin John, and surfing the internet for the latest news, trends, and entertainment. After several bouts with ill health, she moved into an adult care facility in Seattle where she developed lasting friendships with the staff, residents, and owner. Her dear friend Donna kept a close watch on Jeanie, and the two shared the joy of minor mischief whenever they could.

Jeanie was an amazing mother, and she continued to raise her children well into their adulthoods. She was always seeking the opportunity to lend an ear, offer advice, and support Matt and Christie whenever she could. Despite a lack of wealth in the family, Jeanie made sure every Christmas and birthday was a spectacular event. She shared a special relationship with her nieces Lisa, Molley, and Jenny; and took care of any child that ever walked into her house.

Jeanie’s impact on her friends and family will allow her spirit to live on for many years to come. She was loved and cherished, and she will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your preferred mental health charity.