Thomas "Tom" Wendell Sparrow

A memorial gathering will be held for Thomas "Tom" Wendell Sparrow at 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm on Friday, February 6, 2026 at Terpening & Son Chapel. Inurnment will immediately follow the gathering at Woodbine Cemetery.

Tom, 67, passed away on January 22, 2026 in his home in Roswell, New Mexico. He was born on December 14, 1958 to James and Nancy (Franklin) Sparrow in Artesia.

Tom was known for his adventurous spirit and his love for tinkering on cars and motorcycles. Even after undergoing hip surgery, he kept the passion for his bikes alive. A self-proclaimed rule breaker, he was never one to shy away from an adventure, and he lived life on his own terms. His love for classic rock and roll, especially the sounds of Lynyrd Skynyrd and George Thorogood, defined many moments of laughter and music in his life. His infectious energy and carefree attitude brought joy to those around him, and he will be dearly missed by anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

When Tom was young, growing up as an Air Force brat, he was eager to make friends. Anytime him and his family were stationed in a new location, he would go door to door asking if there were any children his age who he could be friends with. That is just a testament to the fact that Tom was the guy who never met a stranger. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and would lend a helping hand to anyone in need without hesitation.

Tom is preceded by his parents, James "Jimmy" and Nancy Sparrow of TorC, and his son, James "Tommy" Thomas Allen Sparrow of Artesia.

Those left to cherish his memory and continue is legacy are his daughter, Lindsay Orosco and husband, Anthony; grandchildren, Jacob Sparrow, Darren, Bryce, Remy, and Ally Orosco; chosen daughter, Reagan Estes; sister, Heather Sparrow; niece, Alyssa Nunez and husband, Memo; and nephew, Cormick Prince, 2 great nieces and one great nephew and his best and most loyal friend Reggie Ray, his furbaby. He also had many life long friends and some new friends that he has made in the last several years that will miss him dearly.