Joe F. Sparks

Elder Joe F. Sparks was called home to be with the Lord on July 16, 2025 at his home in Columbus, OH He was born on December 25, 1931 on Lawrence County, KY He is the son of the late George W. and Beatrice (Damron) Sparks. He is proceeded in death by his wife of 51 years Reba V. (Moore) Sparks, sons Bradford D, and Beniford G Sparks. Brothers Douglas and Benny Sparks. Sisters Virginia Bailey, Ann Clemmons, Norma Pratt, Beulah Mougey, Nora Edwards, Nancy Blake and son-in-law Gerald Varney. Joe is survived by daughter Beatrice Varney of Columbus Ohio and Kay (Ronald) Gray of Mill Shoals, IL. Three granddaughters Melissa Varney, Holly (Levi) Bigley and Niki (Michael) Casper. Six Great Grandchildern Olivia Marie, Avalee Zeppelin, Addison Jo, Everest Kay, Emma Marie and Maverick James. A sister, Mildred (Johnny) Mills. Two Brothers, James L (Oleta) Sparks and George R Sparks and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. Joe was employed at Columbus Auto Parts for 21 years as a machinist. Joe was ordained to preach the gospel for 61 years, and traveled many miles preaching Gods word. Joe was the pastor of the Columbus United Baptist Church for 25 years. Joe loved spending countless hours with his family and church family. He was full of laughter and loved to make people smile with a silly comment. He would always say "I am in no hurry to leave, but when God is ready for me I am ready to go". Joe loved going to church and would decide he wanted to go to a service and off he would go. Visitations will start Sunday July 20th, 4pm at Columbus United Baptist Church 6046 Taylor Rd. Gahanna, OH. 43230 where the service will take place at 1 pm on Monday July 21st. Elders Brent Haney and Michael Horn officiating. Interment will follow at Franklin Hills Memory Gardens. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to Columbus United Baptist Church.