Rose Sparks Crafton

Rose Sparks Crafton, 94, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on May 8, 2025, in Winston-Salem, NC. Born on March 18, 1931, in Mitchell County, NC, Rose lived a life marked by strength, determination, and love.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Pearl McCarthy; her son, Bobby Sparks; her first husband, Bill Sparks; her second husband, Morris Crafton; and her brothers, Billy and Johnny McCarthy.

She is survived by her daughter, Beverly Atwell; her son, Kevin Sparks; her siblings, Edna Blevins and Henry McCarthy; her grandchildren, Nicole, Abby “Rose,” Andrea, and Allie; and her great-grandchildren, Emma “Rose,” Charlie, Asher, Moses, Banks, Wyatt, and Palmer “Rose.”

Rose earned her real estate license in 1962 with the vision and determination that defined her life. “I saw men in the business making money, and I thought to myself, if they can do it, then I can too,” she once said. From the moment she entered the field, she was a top producer, known for her drive and excellence. In 1971, she co-founded McNames-Sparks with Mrs. Madeline McNames, building what became the largest all-female-run real estate firm in North Carolina. She broke barriers as the first woman to serve on the Northwest Bank Board and continued her leadership when it became First Union. In 2000, she was inducted into the Realtor Hall of Fame—a fitting recognition of her remarkable career.

Rose’s passions extended far beyond business. She was a devoted member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, where she found great joy in worship and fellowship. She loved hosting large family gatherings, cooking with warmth and generosity, and welcoming newcomers into her circle—always making them feel like family. Her greatest pride was her family, especially her beloved granddaughters and great-grandchildren, with whom she shared countless moments of laughter and love.

Those who knew Rose will remember her as strong and loving, warm and kind, and—yes—a little pushy, in the very best kind of way. She was fiercely loyal and always ready to help anyone in need. Despite her many achievements, she never lost her humble roots. As her success grew, so did her devotion to those less fortunate—always finding ways to lend a hand and ensure no one was left behind.

A memorial service will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church on Thursday, May 15 at 11:00 a.m., with a reception immediately following from 12:15 to 2:00 p.m. at Forsyth Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church and School. The service will be livestreamed at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiIFlWqtLWU7IGl-8Xcvl9w

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to Yolanda Rivers and her team for the compassionate care they provided over the past four years.

Rose’s strength, spirit, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.