Obituaries

James T. ('Jim') Sparks, Sr., 90, passed away on April 21, 2026 at his home in Florence, KY. Jim was born on December 23, 1935 in Maysville, KY to parents Amos and Hazel (nee Miller) Sparks.

After leaving his job as a draftsman with Cincinnati Gas and Electric, he began his career as a carpenter with Hay Builders, then started his own company, Sparks Builders, from which he retired.

Jim was an avid sports enthusiast (Cincinnati Reds, Bengals and UK basketball). He played football for Dayton High School (Class of 1955). Jim also took part in a bowling league and enjoyed shooting trap as a member of The Bob White Club. He also had a number of interests - collecting coins and clocks, playing chess, watching Western movies, Schneider's opera creams and cookies....any cookie.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Carol Jean (Feucht) Sparks, brother, Amos Sparks, Jr. and sister, Barbara Ann (nee Sparks) Rawe.

Jim is survived by his children James T. ('Tom') Sparks, Jr. (Ann), Timothy A. Sparks, Sr. (Teresa), Daniel R. Sparks, Darren K. Sparks, Doreen Burnette, Ron Krumme, and brother, Kenneth R. Sparks (Laura). Jim was the proud grandfather of 9 and great grandfather of many.

Funeral services will be held at Dobbling Muehlenkamp-Erschell Funeral Home, Bellevue, KY on Friday, 05/01/2026. Visitation is 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM with a memorial service immediately following. Rev. Daniel Fessler will officiate.

Memorials may be made to The Parkinson Disease Association, 260 Stetson Street, Suite 2300, Cincinnati, Ohio 45219.

Special condolences may be given at www.dmefuneral.com.