Joe Ray Sparks

Joe Ray Sparks a life long resident of Hitchita passed away Saturday, May 30th, 2020 at his home in Hitchita at the age of 92. He was born May 21st, 1928 in Arbeka, Oklahoma to John R. Sparks and Lula Mae (Howell) Sparks.

Joe worked as a farmer and propane driver and retired at age 62. He was a member of the Hitchita Freewill Baptist Church. He married Mary Jean on March 4th, 1950 in Checotah, Oklahoma.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Jean Sparks, his parents, John R. Sparks & Lula Mae Sparks, a sister, Wanda Sparks Sims, and brothers J. B. Sparks and Charles William Sparks.

He is survived by his daughter Debbie Crosby & husband Gary;
His son, Terry Sparks & Jennifer Brinker;
Grandchildren, Chad & Jayme Crosby, Jamie & Crystal Crosby, Tasha and Cole Hix, Kevin and Angie Trappmen, Carrie Trappmen, & Shannon Crosby, and Mandy McCullar, also by 17 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.
One sister, Margaret Hamm;
as well as a host of nieces, nephews, friends and other relatives.

Viewing for Mr. Sparks will be on Wednesday, June 3rd from 8am until 8pm.

Mr. Sparks' grandchildren will serve as pallbearers.

Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m., Thursday, June 4th, 2020 at Hitchita Freewill Baptist Church with Rev. Wayne Patton officiating. Mr. Sparks will be laid to rest by his beloved wife, Mary in Lackey Cemetery under direction of Integrity Funeral Service.