Minute with the Mayor

Our community has recently experienced the loss of two men whose lives were defined by service to the people of Sparta. When individuals devote decades of their time, energy, and heart to protecting and helping others, their impact reaches far beyond a title or a job. That is certainly the case with Ray Brown and Jeff Guth.

Ray Brown served our community faithfully for many years as a leader in the Rescue Squad. As longtime chief, Ray answered countless calls for help—often at times when most of us were sleeping or gathered with our families. Emergency response is not an easy calling. It requires courage, sacrifice, and a willingness to go toward difficult situations when others are running away from them.

Ray embodied those qualities. He spent his life making sure that when someone in Sparta or White County needed help, there would be trained men and women ready to respond. Because of Ray’s leadership and commitment, many lives were touched and many families were helped in their most difficult moments. Our community is stronger because of the time and effort he gave to it. Ray Brown will truly be missed.

We have also lost another public servant who devoted his life to the protection of this community—former Sparta Police Chief Jeff Guth. Jeff served with honor, dignity, and a deep sense of responsibility to the citizens he was sworn to protect.

Law enforcement is often a thankless profession, but it is one of the most important roles in any community. Jeff understood that his job was not just about enforcing the law, but about building relationships and serving people. During his time in uniform and throughout his leadership, he influenced many lives for the better. Officers who worked alongside him respected him, and citizens who knew him appreciated his dedication to keeping our community safe.

Both Ray Brown and Jeff Guth represent something very special about Sparta and White County—the spirit of people who are willing to give of themselves for the good of others. Their legacies remind us that communities are not built by buildings or roads alone, but by the character and service of the people who live here.

On behalf of the City of Sparta, we extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends, and the many colleagues who served alongside them. We are grateful for the years they gave to our community and the example they set for future generations.

Sparta has lost two good men, but their service and their memory will not be forgotten.  Please continue to pray for the families of these great men.  

God Bless, Be Safe, Finish Strong

Jerry Lowery