Millard Herbert Sparks, a beloved member of the Salem Community located in Palestine, Arkansas, passed away on May 8, 2024. He was born on September 22, 1931, in the same community to his loving parents, Herbert and Zettie Sparks.

Millard's early education began in the Moro public schools before he had to put his studies aside. However, recognizing the importance of his education, he later completed his studies and earned his GED.

As a hardworking man Millard dedicated 70 years of his life to farming and was blessed to purchase land of his own. He was fortunate to experience love twice in his lifetime. His first wife, Frances Louise Lee, held a special place in his heart. After her passing, fate brought Freida Conner into his life, and they shared many happy years together before her passing.

Millard had a variety of interests and hobbies that brought him joy and allowed him to find peace in the simple things in life. Some of these included his love of hunting deer and coon, fishing, camping, and tending to his garden.

In his early 20s, Millard found solace in his faith and accepted Christ as his personal Savior. He cherished moments of worship at the Salem Methodist Church and found comfort in his spiritual community.

Millard was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert M. and Zettie Howton Sparks, as well as his first wife Frances Louise Lee and second wife Freida Conner. He also mourned the loss of his brothers, Bobbie and Drury Sparks, and sisters, Frances Roberts, Bernell Peterson, and Wilmath Anderson.

Millard leaves behind a legacy of love and family who will carry on his memory and values. Survivors include his sons, Tim Sparks (Charlotte) of Palestine, Michael Sparks (Melissa) of Searcy, and his daughters, Betty Jumper of Forrest City, Charolette Darby of Moro, and Sabrina Raggett (Nathan) of Memphis. Additionally, he is survived by his brothers, C.W. Sparks of Little Rock, Larry Sparks of Memphis, and sisters, Nona Bivens of Jonesboro, Barbara Colling (Jerry) of Mesa, Arizona, Kathy Addison of Bonnerdale, and Paula Mae Arthur (Mac) of Manila. Millard was also blessed with an amazing, 12 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and 10 great-great-grandchildren.

Millard will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the community he cherished. His kindness, work ethic, and love for his family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.