Bernice Sparks

FARMINGTON Bernice (Hurt) Sparks of Farmington, passed away into the arms of the Lord on June 24, 2021 at her home at the age of 93. She was born in Arcadia, Missouri on July 28, 1927 to the late Elza and Opal (Snow) Hurt. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her loving husband, Henry Stanford Sparks in 1992; a step-daughter, Iva Shannon and a brother, Edward Hurt. Bernice was born and raised in Arcadia Valley and Iron Mountain, Missouri. As a young lady she moved to St. Louis where she met Henry Sparks who she fell in love with and married on September 13, 1947. To this union four children were born. She and Henry raised their family in St. Louis before later moving to Farmington. Bernices ability to never meet a stranger and her instinct for knowing when people needed her prayers led her into the ministry. She spent the majority of her life as an ordained minister. Evangelistic work was very fulfilling and rewarding for her as she traveled to many locations to minister to many as a guest speaker. From an early age, Bernice always prayed for everyone and had an especially big heart for those who were down and out. She carried her Bible with her everywhere. Her family will most remember her for her unconditional love, her sense of humor and how easy it was for her to simply love life and trust in the Lord. Survivors include her four children, Mary Yvonne Sparks, Terry Sparks, Donald Sparks, and Maureen Thone Sparks; a step daughter, Loretta (Mrs. Phillip) Ayers; eight grandchildren, Kimberly Wheelehan, Les (Michele) Thomas, Jr., the late Theresa Thomas, Heather (Clyde) Cantrell, Erica Lyn Sparks, Joseph Sparks and Melissa (Zach) Green; numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. Also surviving are a host of nieces, nephews and extended family. There will be a visitation at Cozean Memorial Chapel on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 beginning at 10 a.m. until the funeral service in the Cozean Chapel at 2 p.m. with Pastor Gary Stabenow officiating. Interment will follow at Iron Mountain Cemetery. View the online obituary and share your condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com. Visitation Cozean Memorial Chapel & Crematory Tuesday, June 29, 2021 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM 217 W. Columbia St. Farmington, MO 63640 Funeral Service Cozean Memorial Chapel and Crematory Tuesday, June 29, 2021 2:00 PM 217 W. Columbia St. Farmington, Missouri 63640 Interment Service Iron Mountain Cemetery Tuesday, June 29, 2021 3:15 PM Iron Mountain, Missouri