James Ralph Sparks

1935 - 2024

Died peacefully at home after a brief period of declining health with his daughter Robin Sparks (Reston, VA) at his side. Jim (Ralph to his family, Sparky to many of work buddies) was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife Myrna Sparks, as well as his parents and his brothers (Earl Jr. "Bud" and Kenneth Sparks). In addition to his daughter, Jim is survived by friends and extended family members he loved dearly. Jim was born and raised in Sacramento and was proud to call it home, even after moving to VA in 2017 to live near Robin. Jim became a journeyman electrician after serving in the Air Force in Korea. His work included the Rancho Seco nuclear plant and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System in 1976, fueling his lifelong fascination with Alaska. Jim worked as a maintenance electrician with the EGUSD from 1981-1998. An avid reader with a wealth of knowledge about history, Jim believed in being a good neighbor - he was always willing to help a friend. During Myrna's years of active involvement with the Senior Center of EG,the EG Chamber and others, Jim loved to do his part at events or by making pots of his semi-famous chili beans. He is greatly missed and will be remembered for enjoying a good story and for his great sense of humor, which almost always included a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. Private interment in the EG Cemetery in June. Memorial contributions may be made to EG Regional Scholarship Foundation (c/o Jim and Myrna Sparks Family Scholarship). Arrangements through Adams-Green Funeral Home (Herndon, VA) and Herberger Family EG Funeral Chapel.