Handy John "H.J." Sparks

August 10, 1931 - March 4, 2018

Handy John "H.J." Sparks, age 86, of Erwin, went home to be with his Lord, on Sunday, March 4, 2018 at the Center on Aging and Health. Mr. Sparks was a native of Erwin and a son of the late Handy and Myrtle Mae (Hicks) Sparks. He was a proud veteran of the United States Navy and a Foreman at Clinchfield Railroad. H.J. served faithfully at First Christian Church. He was hardworking and dependable and he never met a stranger. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by three brothers: Edward Sparks, Dennis E. Sparks and Douglas Sparks Handy John "H.J." Sparks leaves behind to cherish his memory: Wife: Berdie (Coffie) Sparks, of Erwin; Sister: Patsy Sparks, of Erwin; Sisters-in-law: Alice Sparks, of Erwin; Edith Sparks, of Erwin; Several nieces and nephews. The family would like to offer special thanks to the staff at the Center on Aging and Health for their love and care. The family respectfully requests the honor of your presence as we offer tribute and remember the life of Handy John "H.J." Sparks in a graveside committal service to be held at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, March 7, 2018 in Evergreen Cemetery. Brother Steven Sparks will officiate. Those attending will meet at Evergreen Cemetery by 12:50 PM on Wednesday for the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, D.C. 20090-6011 or to the Unicoi County Animal Shelter, 185 North Industrial Drive, Erwin, TN 37650. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family and viewed at www.valleyfuneralhome.net or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ValleyFuneralHomeErwin. These arrangements are made especially for the family and friends of Handy John "H.J." Sparks through Valley Funeral Home, 1085 N. Main Ave., Erwin, 423-743-9187.