Samuel “Sammy” Sparks, 70, was born Sept. 5, 1952, and passed away on Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022, surrounded by his family. Sammy was known for being a hard worker. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially going to his camp in West Texas with his family and friends. Sammy proudly served his country in the United States Army. He enjoyed serving his community through the Starks Fire Department. He was a member for over 40 years and was fire chief for 15 of those years. He was also a member of Local 195 for 35 years. He was a faithful member of First Pentecostal Church in Starks. He loved his wife and daughters, and enjoyed spending time with all of his grandkids.
He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Ruth; children, Casey Sparks, Paige Statum and husband, Matthew, and Meghan Blackwelder and husband, Andrew; grandchildren, Kandice Says, Valarie and husband, Jon, Larry Says, Madison Deen, Ansley Blackwelder, Isabella, Aubri, and Mylee Jo Statum; three great-grandsons; sister, Judy Reeves; mother-in-law, Leta Foster; and brother-in-law, Tim Foster, and Mary Johnson.
He was preceded in death by his children, Samuel Ryan Sparks and Samantha Says; granddaughter, Katelin Says; parents, Raymond Sparks and Mary Wallis; sisters, Janie Rambin and Margaret Mings; and father-in-law, Tom Foster.
The family received friends from 5-8 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 11, at First Pentecostal Church in Starks.
Visitation will continue from 12-1 p.m. with the funeral service being held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 12, at First Pentecostal Church in Starks. Pastor Karl Smith will be officiating. Interment to follow at VFW in Starks.
Arrangements were handled by Riley Smith & Sons Funeral Home, 1810 W. 4th Street, DeQuincy.
(Paid Memorial)
