Obituary of Homer G. Sparks

1931 ~ 2019 Homer G. Sparks, 88, passed away at home in Melbourne, Florida on Thursday, June 27, 2019. Born and raised in Anniston, Alabama, he was the youngest child of Mary and Leonard Sparks. During his school years, he was a talented musician and athlete. He began volunteering at the Anniston YMCA USO during World War II under the direction of his life-long mentor W. Paul Alexander. He then attended Auburn University before graduating from Davidson College in North Carolina. Homer served as a First Lieutenant in the Army as a paratrooper, helicopter and fixed wing pilot, and flight instructor, and later served in the Connecticut and Tennessee National Guards. He earned a Master’s of Religious Education from Yale Divinity School, then started his career serving young people as a YMCA Director in Westport, Connecticut and Lebanon, Tennessee. After moving to Melbourne, he subsequently worked as a Realtor and developer in Brevard County. In retirement he enjoyed his family, caregiving for elderly friends, traveling, reading, following politics, and gardening. He and his wife Jean were married for 58 years. In addition to Jean, he leaves behind 4 children, their spouses and partners, 2 grandchildren, and many beloved members of his extended Sparks, Alexander, and Clark families. Homer was always a positive, adventurous person with a tremendous zest for living. He never said no to a trip, never met a stranger, and never stopped telling jokes and funny stories. He was a loyal friend, husband, and father. A graveside service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 2nd at Golden Springs Congregational Methodist Church Cemetery, 1320 Golden Springs Rd. in Anniston, Alabama. A reception at the church will follow. Memorial contributions may be made to the Golden Springs Cemetery Fund, the final resting place of many generations of Sparks. Information and a donation link can be found here: https://hollowaysparks.net/in-memory-of-homer-sparks/.