Patricia Ann “Ann” Sparks, age 81, passed away on May 22, 2026. Born on September 2, 1944, in Booneville, MS, to John Lyle and Mattie Maxine Harper Sparks, Ann had a deep love for the outdoors and found great joy in tending her flower gardens and caring for her yard. As a dedicated member of the Master Gardeners, she shared both her knowledge and appreciation of nature with others.
Ann was passionate about history and genealogy, spending countless hours researching her family’s ancestral roots and preserving their stories for future generations. After retirement, she discovered a love for painting and generously shared her artwork with family and friends. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Daughters of the Confederacy.
Those who knew Ann will remember her quiet spirit, creativity, intelligence, and appreciation for the beauty in nature, history, and family heritage. She is survived by her brother, Edwin Sparks and wife Connie; sister-in-law Regina Sparks; aunt, Ruth Whisenant; cousins Brenda Laurence, Brian Whisenant, and Renee Whisenant Westmoreland and husband Wess; nephews and nieces Michael Sparks, Kristin Sparks, Eric Sparks, John C. Sparks and wife Abigail, Lori Young and husband Gerald, and Leigh Ann Kolbe and husband John; as well as many grandnieces and grandnephews. She also leaves behind her beloved dog and companion, Gizmo.
Ann was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Jerry Lyle Sparks and Eric Wayne “Ricky” Sparks; and her uncle, William Wyatt “Gus” Whisenant. Ann was a very private person and requested that no public service be held at this time. A small private memorial will be held at a later date.
