Lorne Robert Sparks (’62) of Strathroy passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025 at the age of 82 at University Hospital, London. Survived by brother Ronald Gilbert Sparks (’66), sister Patricia (Sparks) Mashinter (’66) (Don), as well as several nieces and nephews. Lorne graduated from London Teachers’ College in ‘64 and UWO later on.  After a brief stint teaching, he worked as a school crossing guard for many years. 

John Andrew McLarty (’72), age 71, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, in Providence, North Carolina, after a decline in health. He is survived by his wife Melanie McLarty, his four children (Angus, Tena, Zia and Brock), his brother Bruce, his six beautiful grandchildren and his cherished furbaby, BooBoo. Pre-deceased by his parents, Ethel Pechta and James Lloyd McLarty (staff, 1953-66), his sister, Penny, and his brother, Mitchell McLarty. John’s life was marked by dedication to public service, a passion for learning, and a deep love for his family and community. He earned an M.B.A. from Wake Forest University and later a Master of Entrepreneurship from Western Carolina University. He began his professional journey with the North Carolina Department of Correction as a Field Compliance Specialist. He oversaw operations at 21 state correctional facilities, retiring in 2018 as an Administrative Officer. John also served as Dean of Piedmont Community College in Caswell County. Beyond his professional accomplishments, John was known for “his unmistakable radio voice, joyful spirit and infectious laughter that endeared him to all who knew him. A true lover of life’s pleasures, John was an avid reader and traveler who found joy in exploring new places and ideas.”

Lindsay (Bowley) Morrell (’99) passed away unexpectedly on August 8, 2025 at the age of 44. Lindsay had recently returned to her hometown of London, after spending the past decade in California. She, her husband Jon, their 10-year-old son Logan, and their beloved dog Blue, made the move to be closer to family – especially her mother, Margaret. Lindsay was joyfully reconnecting with her roots, cherished friends, and loved ones. Lindsay was “vibrant, laughed unabashedly, and found joy in crocheting, baseball, cooking for others, her family, friends, children and dogs”. She had an “unmatched joy for life”. She will be deeply missed by her husband Jon, son Logan, mother Margaret and sister Melissa (Bowley) Chalmers (’97) (Mike), as well as by her many other extended family members.