Sam Sparger East, 94, of Galax, died Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2014, at Twin County Regional Hospital.

He was born on June 14, 1920 to Tom and Lucille East.

He was a proud World War II Veteran, having served as a Sergeant with the Army Air Force from 1942-1945. After his service to our country, he worked as an engineer for Carnation Company for 46 years. He was a devoted and faithful member of First Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brother Wayne East and sister Alice Lowe.

Survivors include his loving wife of 70 years, Elaine H. East of Galax; his daughter and son-in-law Donna and Jerry Mink of Galax; his son and daughter-in-law Dennis and Charlotte East of Galax; his brother and sister-in-law, Arlan and Joan East of Chapel Hill, NC; two granddaughters, Emily Mink of Roanoke, VA and Katy Mink of Charlotte, NC; three step grandchildren, Robin and Greg O'Connor of Dallas, GA, Scott Frye of Galax, VA, and Paige and Cary Shumate of Galax, VA; six step-great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

Family will receive friends on Friday, Nov. 28, 2014 at First Baptist Church at 1pm, and a memorial service will follow at 2pm with Pastor Sam Bartlett officiating.

Memorials may be made to the Galax Hope House, 408 W Center Street, Galax, VA 24333 or the Fran Creggar Fund at First Baptist Church, 1024 E. Stuart Drive, Galax, VA 24333