Alice (Martin) Sparrow

Alice Martin Sparrow was born January 18, 1940, to Lillian and Millie Martin in McCormick, South Carolina. At the age of 86, peacefully at her home, Alice entered eternal rest on February 6, 2026. Alice was one of twelve children and is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Herbert Sparrow, her parents, and several of her siblings. 

Alice graduated from Mims High School in McCormick, South Carolina, Class of 1958. A woman of adventure and curiosity, Alice lived a full and traveled life. Her journey took her across the globe, residing in Hawaii, Japan, Kentucky, and New York. She established a long and distinguished career in North Carolina at Duke University, where she served with excellence as a Pharmacy Technician for many years until her retirement. During her tenure at Duke, she also earned her certification as a Nursing Assistant, always seeking new ways to provide care to others. After years of travel and service, Alice finally returned to her roots, settling in Abbeville, South Carolina, to be close to the family she loved so dearly.

Alice was a woman of passion, determination, and a competitive spirit when the occasion called for it. She was always laughing or joking, but she was equally known for her straightforward honesty. She believed in telling you exactly what she thought; you just had to be careful what you asked, because she was sure to give you the truth--a response you may not have wanted.
She carried the Martin family legacy of service into all her endeavors, volunteering her time and wisdom whenever there was a need. Following her retirement, Alice enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—shopping, cooking for her loved ones, and serving as the ultimate sounding board for her family. She loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren dearly, and her home was a place of both deep laughter and heartfelt guidance.

She leaves to cherish her memories her devoted son, Derrick Candler, and her daughter-in-law, Monica Candler; two grandchildren, Monet Candler and Derrick Candler Jr.; and two precious great-grandchildren, Aydin and Molia.

Left to cherish her memories are sisters Easter Mae Cannon and Margaret Harrison and her brother Walter (Beautine) Martin, sisters-in-law Minnie Martin and Mamie Martin, along with a host of wonderful nieces, nephews, and friends.

Special recognition to cousin Doris Martin, sister Easter Martin, nephew Marvin Martin, niece Angela Martin, close Bettye Wendt and other family friends Louise Wharton and Willie Calhoun who made significant sacrifices and aided in her care over the past several months. She leaves behind a life well lived one defined by service, and a host of family and friends who will never forget her.

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