Stephen “Steve” Arnold Sprague, 75, passed away at his home in Decatur surrounded by his family on Monday, Sept. 26, 2016. He was born on Oct. 6, 1940 in White Hall, Illinois to Charles “Bud” Sprague and Virginia Joyce Sprague. Steve went on to graduate from Southern Illinois University with a degree in Business Management. While there, he met and went on to marry Elizabeth “Beth” Jones of Henderson, Kentucky. Together they had two sons, Steve and Kevin. Steve was retired from Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation where he enjoyed a successful career as General Manager for several of their plants across the country. His family could not have asked for a better husband, father and grandfather. His special interests included spending time with family, sports of all kinds, playing cards and art. He was an accomplished artist and stained glass craftsman.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Beth; sons and daughters-in-law, Steve and Misty Sprague of Roanoke, Virginia and Kevin and Kim Sprague of Huntersville, North Carolina; three grandsons, Chase, Clayton and Garrett; sister, Jean and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2016 at 3 p.m. at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 202 Gordon Dr. SE, Decatur, Alabama 35601. Interment will follow at the McKimmon columbarium in the memorial gardens at St. John’s. The family will greet friends in the parish hall on Tuesday from 2 p.m. until the time of service.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to The Hospice of the Valley and Home Instead senior care for the exceptional service they provided. They also want to thank all of their friends for the love, care and support they have shown over the years.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials may be made in Steve’s name to St. John’s Episcopal Church, The American Cancer Society, The American Heart Association or the charity of your choice. Hartselle Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family.
