Russell D. Sparks

CENTERVILLE, Ind. - Russell D. Sparks, age 65, of Centerville, died Tuesday, May 28, 2013, at his home. Born August 28, 1947, in Beattyville, Kentucky, to Charlie and Emma Arvin Sparks, he lived in this area most of his life. Russell retired in 1980 as Sergeant in the U.S. Army after serving two tours in Vietnam. He was a life-member of the VFW Kirk-Little Post 1108 and American Legion Post 287. Russell loved coffee with his sugar, cable tv, and he never knew a stranger. On Mother's Day 2013, Russell trusted Christ as his Savior. Survivors include his wife, Sharon McClanahan Sparks, to whom he was married July 4, 1997; daughters, Dawn (Richard) Ellgen of San Jose, California, Barbara (John) Skinner of Athens, Ohio, and Maurcia (David) Crutcher of Cambridge City; son, Daniel P. Sparks of Centerville; step-daughter, Mellissa Blackwell of Indiana; three grandchildren, Lindsey Petty, Max Ellgen, and Hayle Crutcher; four step-grandchildren, Ashley, Brittney, and Savanah Blackwell, and Briana Diamond; one great-grandson, Carson; three step-great-grandchildren, Daniel, Kaylee, and Dustin; sisters, Crystal (Dave) Pierson of Mansfield, Ohio, Jean (James) Angel of Edinburg, Virginia, Dixie (Earl) Stapleton of Richmond, and June Snowden of Richmond; brothers, Everett (Lou) Sparks of Lexington, Kentucky, and Richard (Faye) Sparks of Streetsboro, Ohio; nieces; nephews; many friends; and his special dog, Coco. He was preceded in death by his father, Charlie Sparks; mother and step-father, Emma and Cordy Reece; daughter, Melissa Sparks; brother, Hebert Sparks; and sister, Wanda Allen. Visitation for Russell D. Sparks will be from 4 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, May 31, 2013, at Mills Funeral Home, 405 East Main Street, Centerville. Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 1, 2013, at Mills Funeral Home with Chaplain Gary Kirchoff officiating. Burial will be in Crown Hill Cemetery with military honors provided by the Wayne County Honor Guard. Memorial contributions may be made to: Wounded Warrior Project, 230 West Monroe Street, Suite 200, Chicago, IL 60606. Condolences may be sent to the family via the guest book at www.doanmillsfuneralhome.com.

Russell D. Sparks

August 28, 1947 - May 28, 2013