On a cold winter morning Jan 16, 2025, Larry, 80 reached for Jesus’s hand. He was with his wife Linda of 58 years, who still survives. Larry was a member of the Middleburg Methodist church and enjoyed listening to special TV ministries.
Larry was born on February 21, 1944, at home to Walter and Thelma (Smith) Sparks in Pfifer Station, Hardin County. Larry was one of 7 children: Judy (Dick Crawford), deceased Madeline (Jim Osborn), Linda (Terry Wuethrich), deceased Kenny (Jayne), Cheryl (Greg Timmons) and Dennis Sparks (Pam).
Larry and Linda were blessed with 3 children: Deana (David Gibson), Cindy (Todd Dallas) and Tyler Sparks. These 3 babies created 7 awesome grandchildren Krystin and Wade Gibson, Garrett and Justin Dallas, Tyler Tillman, Trevor and Trenton Sparks for Larry to tease and love, as the idea caught on so, 7 great grandchildren to Larry complete his circle of love.
Larry served in the United Air Force Springfield Communication Squadron. One highlight of Staff Sergeant Larry Sparks was when he got to communicate with Astronaut John Glenn in outer space.
Larry started out as a farmer and worked at a factory, changing names several times (Bulldog, Gould, ITE) Siemens retiring after 35 years. He loved to load up the camper with grandbabies and head out for some fishing, hiking, biking, swimming, campfire, etc. fun. Larry was a super charged avid fan of Ohio State University sports and Cleveland Browns. Entering the yearly Champaign County Fair in Floriculture competing against Linda was a highlighted time for them both.
Larry enjoyed animals, especially dogs. Hobbies consisted of gardening, helping kids show animals at the Fair, golfing, bowling, watching family members participate in sporting activities, card games, square dancing.
Arrangements are set for Friday, January 24, at Jennings-Farley-Seeley Funeral Home viewing from 2-4pm, with 4 p.m. starting the funeral service and no gravesite service at this time. Casual wear is encouraged (supporting your favorite sports team) and in lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Macochee Joint Ambulance Service, &/or West Liberty Fire Department.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.jenningsfarley.com.