Survivors include his wife of nearly 67 years, Betty Sparks, daughters Donna Kakavecos (Don), Jane McCutcheon (Tom), Nancy Tucker (Greg), son Bernie Sparks (Lynn), grandchildren Carrie Kakavecos, Sam McCutcheon (Ashley), Matt McCutcheon, Eric Tucker (Laura), Erica Sparks, Whitney Lugo, and great grandchildren Michael Kakavecos Wasko, Clayton McCutcheon, Brooklyn Tucker, Marshall Tucker, Chaseton Allen and Anna Allen. Preceding him in death was his grandson, Wesley Kakavecos.
Jim was born in Caples, West Virginia on April 21, 1937 and grew up in Welch WV. He was one of twelve children of Charles Moses Sparks and Evelyn Louise Sparks. He is survived by 4 of his siblings, Ruth Canups of Trinity, Alabama, Helen Cielaki of Spotsylvania Virginia, Mike Sparks of Beckley, West Virginia, and Joe Sparks of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Jim married Betty McDonald on May 19, 1957. They remained in West Virginia where he worked as a firefighter for 2 years, and then he moved his family to Decatur Alabama in 1962 where he soon went to work at the Decatur Electric Department. He retired in 1994 with over 30 years of service.
Jim was a well-loved member of Fairview Baptist Church for almost 60 years. He served as a deacon, Sunday School Teacher, janitor, and all around handy man for the church.
Jim was not one to be idle, as he was always willing to help those in need with his many skills, volunteering for ministry activities and assisting everyone in his circle of community. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
His Celebration of LIfe will be held at Fairview Baptist Church 4511 Danville Rd. Decatur, AL on Wednesday May 8th at 2:00pm. Visitation will be one hour pryor to service starting.
Memorials contributions can be made to Hospice of the Valley, 240 Johnston St SE, Decatur, AL 35601.
