John Ray Sparks, 78, of Bakersville, NC passed away on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family. He was the son of the late Charles and Beulah Sparks. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his wife, Doris Buchanan Sparks, his sister Jane Jones, and brother, Lee Sparks, and "special mother" Elizabeth Phillips.

John was a retired millwright and truck driver. He loved his horses and guns and was a member of the Cowboy Single Action Society and the NRA. John was also a member of Cub Creek Baptist Church.

Survivors include his daughter, Sherry Silver and husband Mark of Bakersville; son, Alan Sparks and wife Cheryl of Savannah, GA; "special daughter" Jewl Collins Evans; sisters, Martha Haberhern and Jackie Purdy both of Florida; grandchildren: Cigi Sparks, Shalee Sparks Page (Tyler), and Makayla Silver and great granddaughter, Kinsley Silver.

A private family service will be held at a later date.