James Joseph "Jim" Sparks

James Joseph "Jim" Sparks

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Jim Sparks 91, of Kirksville, Missouri, formerly of Ewing, Missouri departed this life on Sunday, April 14, 2024.

He was the son of Erie P. Sparks and Lauria (Davis) Sparks, he was born in Quincy, Illinois on June 8, 1932. Jim was united in marriage to Emma (Claus) Sparks on August 9, 1953. Emma preceded him in death on October 26, 2021.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, one son, Brian Sparks and three brothers and sisters, Paul Sparks, Betty Staats, and Jerry Sparks.

Jim is survived by three sons and daughters-in-law, Dr. James J. Sparks Jr. (Holly) of Verdigre, Nebraska, Dr. Robert W. Sparks (Dolores) of Kirksville, Mo , and Steven W. Sparks, (Jeanine) of Wright City, MO. Jim was a grandparent to 11 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren. Surviving siblings include, Barbara , Wiley, Riley (Skip), Larry, John, Nancy, Becky, Lonnie and Beverly.

Jim was a proud veteran who served his country honorably. His service included The Army National Guard and 4 years in the U.S. Navy seeing service in the Korean conflict. He was awarded the Korean Service Medal, the National Defense Medal, the United Nations Medal and the China Service Medal. He continued his service by being actively involved with the Veterans of Foreign Wars and mentoring returning service members.

Jim was engaged in both manufacturing and farming after his return from service. He was employed with the Electric Wheel company in Quincy, IL for 24 years while also farming in the Ewing, Mo area.
Jim was an avid fisherman who loved the outdoors. He loved turkey hunting and most anything outdoors.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 19, 2024 at Fellowship Baptist Church in Kirksville, with Pastor Larry Gibson officiating. Family will receive friends at the church from 10:00 to service time. Interment with military honors will be held following the service at Highland Park Cemetery in Kirksville under the direction of Travis-Noe Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Jeremy Sparks, Benjamin Sparks, Travis Sparks, Elizabeth McCollum, Daniel McCollum, Curtis Schmidt. Sheila Schmidt will be an honorary pallbearer.

Memorials donations in memory of James Sparks may be made to Highland Park Cemetery, and may be left at the church or left at or mailed to Travis-Noe Funeral Home, P.O. Box 306, Kirksville, MO 63501.

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