Clara Sprouse was born in Wilmar, Minnesota on February 14, 1915. Her family moved to Washington State when she was little girl, where she lived a wonderful long life as a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Clara died unexpectedly on November 12th from a stroke. Her family was by her side. Clara grew up in Avon, Washington, and attended Western Washington College of Education. She married Morris "Bud" Sprouse and had three children: Meade, Sara, and Steve.. She lived in the house that she and Bud built on Montgomery Street in Mt. Vernon for over sixty years. Everyone who knew Clara will remember her as a gentle, compassionate, loving Christian woman who was so proud of her family and friendships. She was the longest attending member of the First United Methodist Church and was extremely close to her life circle group, which included Carolyn, Ginnie, Lynette, and Florence. They met with Clara on a regular basis and shared coffee, cookies, conversation and prayers. Clara devoted countless hours of service to the church as a member of the United Methodist Women; the church was one of the most important things in Clara's life. In addition to her service at the church, Clara was one of the founding members – and current treasurer - of the MVHS Scholarship Foundation. She belonged to the Children's Hospital Guild as well. Clara had many interests and was always on the go. She hosted many a bridge party at her home and was a sharp card player. On weekends, she would always be tuned in to the Husky or Cougar football games and would root for both as her kids and grandkids had attended both schools. When Jim Wylie was over however, she always cheered for the Cougs. She was an avid Mariners and Seahawks fan as well. Clara was preceded in death by her husband, Morris "Bud" Sprouse; her son, Steve Sprouse; and her grandson, Ricky Sprouse. She is survived by her son, Meade Sprouse (Geri), her daughter, Sara Seward; daughter-in-law Julie Sprouse; her grandchildren and their spouses, Meade Sprouse (Jill), Kevin Sprouse (Chrissy), Kristy Kottkey (Kevin),Matt Seward (Thelxie), and Lori Campbell (Shami); six great-grandchildren; and a special friend, Jim Wylie. A memorial service will be held at the United Methodist Church at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday. Remembrances can be made to the MVHS Scholarship Foundation or the United Methodist church in Mt. Vernon.