Alicia Vaye Avlon (Bowling), 75, passed away peacefully at Mitchell Hollingsworth on April 17, 2023 after a battle with her health. Alicia was born on August 19,1947 to John T. “Jay” and Erlene Sparks. She spent most of her childhood years in Russellville, AL and graduated from Russellville High School in 1965. She went on to marry her high school sweetheart and raised three children. Some of her happiest times were living on the farm raising sheep and chickens, gardening, and doing crafts. After divorce, she lived in various cities and later moved back to Florence, where she spent her last years. She was strong in her faith and tried to see the good in all people. She always had a sweet spirit and a smile.
Ms. Avlon was preceded in death by her parents, John T Jr. and Erlene Sparks. She is survived by her sister, Cyndi Sparks; children, Mary Delana Powell (Michael), Dena Westcott, and Derrick Bowling, M.D. (Steve Ryan); grandchildren, Nectaria Gillette (Chris), Ryan Wilson, Katia Stewart (Kenny), Dalton Wilson (Triana), and Sera-Mikal Westcott; great grandchildren, Riley & Tommy Stewart, Zeni & Ian Gillette, Niko & Remi Wilson; and several other family members and friends.
Special thanks to Dr. Rhuland, Dr. Santiago, Dr. Bhottelo, Amedisys Home Health and the entire staff plus the nurses and CNAs of Station 5 at Mitchell Hollingsworth.
A celebration of life service will be held privately with close family and friends. In lieu of flowers to honor her memory, the family asks that you perform an act of kindness for a stranger.
