Gerald W. Sparks

Gerald W. Sparks passed away on September 11, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. He was 76. He was born on April 24, 1950, in Sparta, Tennessee to the late George

Sparks, Jr. and Loretta Luna Sparks. Gerald lived a life marked by faith, devotion, and a genuine love for people. He was a member of First Baptist Church and liked to consider himself a Kingdom Laborer, a calling that reflected the foundation of his life and the way he chose to serve others.

Over the years Gerald participated in a broad variety of church ministries including: engagement in a Life Group, music ministry, and teaching Bible classes, from preschoolers to deep Bible studies with mature adults and leading devotionals in retirement homes. He also enjoyed volunteering in Jackson’s “Read Team”, a program that tutors public school second graders to improve their reading skills.

He was a graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering. He was deeply proud of his alma mater and truly bled orange. There was no mistaking his enthusiasm for the Tennessee Vols when watching a game on TV.

Outside of his work and service, Gerald enjoyed a wide range of interests. He was an avid golfer, and the game was his favorite hobby. In his younger years, he was especially outdoorsy. He enjoyed water sports at Center Hill Lake, rode motorcycles, loved archery, and in 1966 was named the Junior Archer Champion.

Above all, Gerald considered his family to be his proudest accomplishment. He loved his wife, his children, and his grandchildren deeply, and that love was at the center of his life. His legacy is one of steadfast faith, joyful service, and wholehearted love for those closest to him.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 27 years, Linda Upchurch Sparks; children, Adam (Lenora) Sparks and Suzanne Sparks (Jeff) Carney; grandchildren, Aaron James Sparks and Fiona Tamsin Hazel Carney; and the mother of his children, Amy Brewer Sparks.

A celebration of life to honor and celebrate Gerald will be held October 15, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Jackson.  Times are to be announced later. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Baptist Church at 1627 N. Highland Ave., Jackson, TN 38301.   

Gerald will be remembered with gratitude by all who knew him and by the many people whose lives were brightened by his generosity, warmth, and servant’s heart. May his memory bring comfort and peace.