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Taylor Funeral Home of Louisville announces the death and funeral services of Mr. John T. Sparks, age 79, of Louisville, who died Friday November 8, 2024.

A native of Birmingham, Alabama, John was a son of the late George Dempsey Sparks and Margene Brasfield Sparks. He graduated as salutatorian of his class from Parrish High School in 1964. John went on to attend and graduate from Auburn University in 1968 where he earned a bachelor's degree in accounting and management. He was a loyal employee with Alabama Power for 37 years, where he retired as an office manager. In April of 1966, he married the love of his life, Bonnie Odom Sparks, whom he shared 58 wonderful years with. Together, he and Bonnie had two daughters, Terri Sparks Dudley and Laura Sparks.

John moved to Louisville, Georgia in 2005 to be closer to his grandchildren. He became an active member of the community where he was involved in the Louisville Rotary Club, serving as president in 2010 and 2011. He was an involved member of Louisville ARP Church where he served as an elder. John was honored as an elder emeritus in 2024 for 48 years of service.

He had a great love for Auburn University and never missed a football game. He lived his life by the Auburn creed and often quoted it by saying, "I believe in work, hard work." More than anything, John loved his family fiercely. He shared his love for his family through acts of service and would do anything for his girls. One of his favorite pastimes was sharing stories of his life over a good meal with his family.

Mr. Sparks was preceded in death by his parents, his brother (Charles Sparks), his brother-in-law (Bill Odom), and his son-in-law (Allen Dudley). He is survived by his beloved wife, Bonnie O. Sparks, daughters, Terri S. Dudley, and Laura Sparks, all of Louisville, granddaughters, Maura Dudley of Louisville, and Jennifer Dudley, (Tripp Smith) of Athens, and his beloved fur baby "Tabby."

John will be remembered as a loving husband, father, "Papa," and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

Funeral services to celebrate his life will be held 2:00 PM Wednesday, November 13, 2024, in the Louisville Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church with Dr. Bill Cain officiating. Burial will follow in the Jefferson Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the services Wednesday in the Louisville ARP Church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Samaritan's Purse or the Alcoholics Anonymous House of Louisville in John's honor.

The family can be contacted at their home on West 9th street in Louisville.

Taylor Funeral Home and Cremation Care of Louisville is in charge of arrangements.