Karen Adkins Sparks

Karen Adkins Sparks Karen Adkins Sparks, age 64, passed away on Monday April 9, 2012 in San Antonio at the Brooke Army Burn Center. Karen suffered severe burns from an accident in her kitchen on March 20th. Weakened lungs complicated her condition and after three weeks of fighting for her life, suffered a massive stroke. At the time of her passing she was surrounded by her many loved ones including her husband and best friend of 25 years, James, "Jim" Sparks. Karen is also survived by seven stepchildren and spouses, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren and various in-laws and out-laws. She has many other family members in Tennessee, Arkansas, and Michigan. Karen had a most loving and generous spirit and a heart bigger than the State of Texas. When she married Jim, she married the whole family, embracing all of the extended family members. Karen made sure no one was left out and that everyone felt welcome. She especially loved organizing family events and get- togethers. If you know the Sparks Clan, these were no small events! When she was able, she would start shopping in September for Christmas gifts for the little ones and she always kept a "birthday calendar" so no one was forgotten on their special day. Karen grew up in Dyersburg, Tennessee, graduating from grade-school. Karen attended Tennessee University before marrying her first husband, Larry Blanchett. They relocated to Texas and Karen found work at the Motor Vehicle Division of the Texas Highway Department in Austin. While there, she met and made many friends during her 25 years of service and eventually met Jim after her divorce from Larry. While employed with the State, Karen obtained certification as a legal assistant from the University of Texas Law School. After retiring from the State, Karen was able to do what she enjoyed most, spending time with and taking care of Jim. Services for Karen will be held 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 14, 2012 at Harrell Funeral Home, 4435 Frontier Trail, Austin, Texas. Graveside services will follow at 1:00 p.m., at Giddings City Cemetery in Giddings, Texas. We wish to thank the wonderful and caring staff members of Brooke Army Medical Center Burn Unit, Dr. King and Dr. Chan, the ICU nurses, social worker, and chaplain for their excellent professional care and support. It has been a tremendous comfort to our family knowing Karen received the highest level of care possible while at Brooke Army Medical Center. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Karen's name to your favorite charity.