Howard Sparks

Howard Sparks, age 88, of Sebring, Florida, passed away on January 28, 2024. He was born on July 9, 1935, in Tipton Hill, NC, to the late Robert and Estelle Gage Sparks. Howard was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Betty Hughes and Joyce Sparks.

Howard is survived by his loving spouse, Billie Ruth Sparks, his daughter Amy Young and spouse Randy, his son Heath Sparks and spouse Patty, his granddaughters Aliscia Andrews and spouse Daryl, Kaitlyn Young, Madison Young, his grandson Adam Braud and spouse Whitney, his great-grandsons Kaleb and Logan Andrews, his great-granddaughters Sloane Andrews and Evie Braud, his sisters Phyllis McKinney, Emma Gouge, Lou Buchanan, Patsy Connelly, and Nina Long.

Howard proudly served in the Army from April 14, 1959, to March 31, 1965. He was a dedicated soldier who exemplified bravery and honor throughout his military career.

After his service, Howard pursued a career in social work. He worked as the Director of Social Services for Transylvania County, North Carolina, from 1980 to 1983, and later served as the Director of Social Services for Haywood County, North Carolina, from 1983 to 1988. Howard's passion for helping others led him to become the Regional Director of Services for the Blind serving Western and Central North Carolina from 1988 to 1993.

In his free time, Howard enjoyed being involved in various organizations and giving back to his community. He was an active member of Gideons International, Habitat for Humanity, and the Baptist Men's group.  Howard also spent many years supervising construction of churches in and around Alaska as well as reconstruction of housing that was damaged from violent storms.

Howard was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church in Sebring, FL, where he found solace and strength in his spiritual journey.

Howard's warm smile, kind heart, and dedication to serving others will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of love and compassion will continue to inspire and uplift those whose lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to Gideons International or Habitat for Humanity in memory of Howard Sparks.

Arrangements entrusted to:
Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
111 East Circle Street
Avon Park, FL  33825
Online condolences may be left at:
www.stephensonnelsonfh.com