Beverly Joan "Sparks" Nealis

Beverly Joan Sparks Nealis, 67, of East Highway 60, Salt Lick, formerly of Olympia, passed away Thursday, July 17, 2025, at UK Medical Center in Lexington.

Born July 18, 1958, in Morehead, Beverly was the daughter of the late Levi Jared Sparks, Jr. and Detta Frances Hall Sparks Barker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Rocky Wayne Sparks and Rex Allen Sparks.

Beverly is survived by her husband of 35 years, Gerald Nealis, whom she married on June 1, 1990; two daughters, Audie "Tala" Frances Highfield (James) of Rising Sun, Indiana, and Wendy Simpkins of Lexington; one son, JR Wilson (Dana) of Wolfe County; six grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren.

Other survivors include her sister, Shirley Gallagher (William) of Richmond; her brother, Kevin Glen Barker of Salt Lick; sister-in-law, Anita Sparks of Georgia; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and many other relatives and friends.

Beverly worked as a phlebotomist at St. Claire Medical Center and UK Chandler Hospital. She attended Freedom Church in Mt. Sterling, loved horses, and found joy in worship and fellowship. She deeply loved the Lord, cherished her family-especially her grandchildren-and adored her Schnauzer, Jazzy. Beverly's warmth and faith will be forever remembered and deeply missed.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no visitation. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care of Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, KY 40351.