Lasco Sparks

On March 12, 1948 a handsome baby boy was born to Ida B. Sparks in Birmingham Alabama. Born the 2nd of 4 boys (Cedric Sparks, Hosiea Sparks & Edward Lamonte Johnson) during the turbulent years of the South, Ida B. kept her boys close and in Church. At an early age, Lasco affectionately became known by his Birmingham family and friends as “Pooky”. He was a rambunctious, defiant, adventurous, and caring kid who loved traveling. Shortly after graduation from A. H. Parker in Birmingham, Lasco joined the military leaving his Southern roots behind.

Lasco’s stint in the military landed him in Texas where Dallas became his home. Ida’s ambition for all her son’s continued education was already embedded in Lasco as he attended Bishop College after the military. Dallas continued to be his home until career opportunities drew him to Houston Texas.

In Houston, Lasco joined Antioch Baptist Church and later met his eventual life partner and wife by happenstance during the lunch hours in Downtown Houston, where they were both out with other lunch dates. After lunch he sought her out in true Lasco form. Lasco and Cynthia married and to this union their only child, Ashleigh La ’Shawn Sparks was born. As a family, they enjoyed travelling, fishing and spending quality time with family and close friends.

As life settled in Houston, Lasco’s drive for financial and self-independence led him to own several businesses over the years from hair salons to a home mortgage company. He encouraged Ashleigh, her friends, and family to strive for financial acuity and set their own paths providing solicited and unsolicited encouragement.

He leaves to cherish his fond memories with wife Cynthia Starling Sparks, daughter Ashleigh La’Shawn Sparks Bennett, Son-in Law Darius and grandchildren Lauryn Denise and Jeremiah James Bennett. He also leaves Lamonte (Sally), Debra wife of Hosiea who preceded him in death along with Cedric and wife Doris; a host of nieces and nephews in Birmingham, Georgia and Houston. With great memories, his travelling buddies, The Washingtons (Philisie & Millard), and Wileys (Sally & Eugene).

A family viewing for Lasco will be held Saturday, July 20, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Brookside Funeral Home-Cypress Cr, 9149 Highway 6 North, Houston, TX 77095, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 AM.