On Tuesday, August 30, Heaven became a little brighter as the gates opened to welcome Scotty Sparks Home. Scotty was born July 21, 1944 to Clara and Mack Sparks of Bakersville.
He was preceded in death by father Mack and mother Clara Sparks. He was also predeceased by sisters Maxine Davis, Shirley Huskins, and Norma Garland. He is survived by his sister Karen and husband Dean Duncan of Bakersville, Mack (Bud) and wife Barbara Sparks of Waynesville, and sister Carol and husband David Lee of Mills River.
The most important thing to Scotty was a relationship and walk with Jesus Christ and his association with Bear Creek Baptist Church and until he became very ill in recent years, seldom missed a service. He was faithful in his daily time of devotion and interaction with God. Karen and Dean often found him in prayer throughout the day. This was such an important part of who Scotty was. His character was exemplary. His walk with God never waivered.
Scotty worked at Coats American for 38 years before retirement. During those years, he rarely missed a day. Upon retiring, he helped care for his mother. He was independent and tried to care for her as well as himself until her passing.
After retiring, Scotty volunteered at the Senior Citizen Center. They loved him dearly. He also helped deliver Meals on Wheels. This brought him joy to see people and make new friends. He was a member of the Golden Agers singing group and visited care facilities and nursing homes. He also helped with the Bear Creek food ministry to the schools and the Bear Creek ministry to the Green’s of Spruce Pine.
Scotty’s health began to deteriorate and it was necessary for him to leave his home and live with sister Karen and brother in law Dean. He became an integral part of their home.
Scotty was an avid reader. This summer alone he finished 12+ books. He never stopped reading the Bible. That took precedence over all other books. He loved reading about his Appalachian heritage. He loved reading about nature and read every book that came within reach. Another aspect of Scotty’s interests could be found in his enjoyment of classical music and acoustic guitar. The love of the old time classic hymns brought him great joy also. He loved his family and opportunities for them to be together. He would visit his sister Mimi in Philadelphia with all the family. During the visits, he would be sure to visit historical sites in the area. He loved the adventures he was able to take with Karen, Dean, and Thomas. Thomas was his favorite 4 legged friend. As you can tell, Scotty didn’t let grass grow under his feet!
Scotty was a ray of sunshine to those he met. He always had a joke that left family and friends laughing. Later, thoughts of Scotty brought a tender smile to their faces. We, as a family and friends, have been blessed to have had Scotty in our lives. He will never be forgotten.
A celebration of Scotty’s life will be held Saturday September 3, 2022 at 2:00PM in Bear Creek Baptist Church with Reverend Bruce Cannon officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at the church cemetery. Due to concerns for a family member the family requests that you bring and wear a mask if attending the service. Memorials may be made to Bear Creek Baptist Church Building Fund.
Henline – Hughes Funeral Home is assisting the Sparks family.
