Helen Sparks

FARMINGTON Helen Sparks, of Farmington passed away March 20,2019 at Southbrook Skilled Nursing and Rehab at the age of 94. She was born May 9, 1924 in Flat River, Missouri to the late Frank Leist and Myrtle (Reeves) Leist. She was preceded in death by her father, Frank Leist; her first husband, Earl Limbaugh; her mother, Myrtle Leist; a brother, F. J. Leist and her second husband, Donald Sparks. Helen will be remembered as a devoted mother who loved her children unconditionally. While her first husband was serving in WWII, she worked at the shoe factory in Flat River. After his passing Helen worked as a medical secretary in Flat River for Dr. Byron Taylor, M.D. Later from 1960 through the 1970's she and her husband, Donald owned and operated Sparks Funeral Home in Potosi. She was known to be naturally artistic in her interior decoration and design skills, as well as her gardening and landscaping talents. Needlepointing was one of Helens favorite pastimes and she made many beautiful pieces to share with others. She had a particular bond with pets and always enjoyed having dogs and cats. Her sense of humor and quick wit will be a memory her children will hold dear. She was a wonderfully devoted and dedicated wife. Helen was a member of Memorial United Methodist Church of Farmington. And Jesus said to Him, "truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise". Survivors include three children, Ted Limbaugh of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Dana (Mrs. Ray) Piescik of West Palm Beach, Florida and Jay Sparks of St. Louis, Missouri; a sister-in-law, Paula Sparks, wife of the late Marion "Mel" Sparks of St. Louis and a host of extended family. There will be a private graveside service for Mrs. Sparks locally and a celebration of life will be planned by the family for a later time. Memorials, if desired, may be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Farmington Pet Adoption Center. You may share your condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.