On Wednesday, March 20th, Mike Sparks of Red Bay, Alabama, slipped the bonds of Earth and passed into Heaven after a well-lived 80 years.
Mike is survived by his sons: Michael Brent Sparks and David Blake Sparks and wife, Heather Sparks; grandchildren: Jonathan Sparks, Natalie Sparks, Michael Sparks, Skyler Sparks, and Ethan Sparks; and great-grandchildren: Anna Headley, Charlee Sparks, Callen Lunn, and Avery Sparks. He was preceded in death by his parents John F. Sparks & Lena K. Sparks, sibling’s four sisters and two brothers, and wife Patricia B. Sparks.
Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Mike’s adventurous and driven spirit was evident at an early age. Mike majored in marketing at the University of Alabama which lead to a wide range career as Director of Retail Marketing, Marketing and Sales Promotion Manager, Advertising and Sales Manager and entrepreneurship in restaurant and furniture industries. He was extremely successful and eventually led to answering the call he felt in ministry and counseling, his willingness to try something new and drive to succeed was unmatched.
He believed deeply that it was by God’s help and grace alone he was able to overcome many obstacles and struggles in his life, and he never failed to credit God for it. As a result, Mike became well-known for big hugs, big laughs, and big help. He was grateful for the opportunity to help others in any way he could, always reassuring, “If there’s hope for me, there is hope for anyone.” with a laugh and a smile.
Mike enjoyed the great outdoors, traveling, and riding his motorcycle. His love for learning never diminished, even earning his master’s degree in later adult years. Of all the loves in Mike’s life, undoubtedly, he loved God and his family the most.
Mike spent 56 years alongside his wife Patricia, and together they went on many adventures including long distance moves, raising their two sons Brent and Blake, having grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all while sharing an unbreakable bond and an unconditional love and devotion for each other.
A memorial service celebrating Mike’s life will be held on Thursday April 4, 2019 at 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 509 4th Ave SW, Red Bay, Alabama. Friends and family are invited to attend a reception after the service. Private burial arrangements are being handled by Deaton Funeral Home of Red Bay Alabama.
Mike was a man of many stories, and as we celebrate his life, we hope you will bring your stories to share. Flowers may be ordered by Consider the Lilies Tel: (256) 356-8313.
