Mary Ann Sparks, Jr. Horne

In the song of life, Mary Ann Horne was surely the composer. A very observant woman who would rather spend her time creating than talking, Mary preferred to live in a world of harmony where everything around her made sense. In fact, she depended on her sensory world to provide her with concrete data. A free spirit, Mary believed that actions definitely spoke for themselves. She seemed to know what fit and what didn’t fit in everything she did. Mary perceived that all of life’s possibilities were open to her, yet she lived with a definite sense of purpose. She was a woman who was always ready to share her creations with those around her.

Mary was born on December 28, 1953 at home in Marvell, Arkansas. Her parents were Aaron Sparks Jr. and Jossie Mae Porter - Sparks. Mary was raised in Arkansas and California. As a young child, Mary was optimistic in her outlook. She sought out the possibilities in a given situation and looked for ways to apply her creative energies. Mary rarely calling attention to herself, but when she did speak out, her message was clearly understood by those around her.

Early on in her family relationships, Mary showed that she was a tolerant and flexible person, and she got along fairly well with everyone. She was raised with one sisters and two brothers, and one step brother and one step sister. She had 1 sister Gail, and 2 brothers Glen and Jerald, 1 step sister Susette, and 1 step brother Billy. She was a calm and playful child who was adaptable to any situation.

As she was growing up, Mary developed into a person who enjoyed physically doing things, and she took pleasure in using her hands in order to create. Whether it was drawing pictures, working with building kits, or even just tapping out a rhythm to play by, Mary liked concrete things. She was a member of the Charm Club in high school. In her spare time she liked to read. However, to Mary, the most fun she had was simply playing, and spending time with friends.

Early on in her school years, Mary showed an interest in learning, especially when it came to subjects in the arts. At times, school learning did not provide Mary with sufficient challenges, but being an avid reader, she could often be “lost in a book” well above her grade level. Her passion for fine arts was so keen that fellow students and even her teachers recognized it. She graduated from Locke High School in 1971. She enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers.

Those who didn’t know Mary well might not view her as being an outgoing person, those who called her their friend knew differently. Mary was shy and sensitive, a person who never forced her opinions and values on others. Close friends knew that her kindness was unmatched, and once you became a friend of Mary’s, you understood how true a friend she could be. Later in life, she became friends with Lawanna Johnson.

Mary was exceptionally sympathetic and compassionate when it came to her children. These emotional bonds made her as much playmate as parent. She gave her family unconditional love and kindness, sharing her artistic nature by turning everyday events into creative play. Mary was blessed with three children, two daughters, Tamisha and Davonne and one son, Marcus. They were also blessed with three grandchildren, Khaleigha, Shy-ann, Kha'marii.

Mary found ways to enjoy what she did for a living. She worked hard and did her best to succeed every day. Her primary occupation was Billing Manager. She was employed in the Health care profession for over twenty years. Mary tended to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done without imposing her will on others.

Mary enjoyed her leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. Her favorite pursuits were spending time with her Family and grandchildren. Mary was content to enjoy her hobbies alone but was also willing to share her interests with others. She was relaxed in her approach to her leisure time because she wanted to savor the present moment.

Throughout her life, Mary was a doer and was always actively involved in professional and community organizations. In high school, Mary was a member of the Charm Club. She had a tendency to bring peace to her relationships by avoiding disagreements.

Mary’s faith was important to her. She was a member of One Accord Gospel Ministries Christian Church. Mary's passionate commitment to upholding her values placed her at home in her religion, where she took comfort in the company of others who believed as she did.

Mary passed away on August 11, 2010 at Centennial Hills Hospital, in North Las Vegas, Nevada. She is survived by three children, Tamisha, Marcus, Davonne, three grandchildren, Shy-ann, Khaleigha, Kha'marii, two sisters, Gail & Susette, three brothers, Jerald, Glen Billy, three aunts, Betty, Naomi, & Vearlean, two uncles, Demond, & Napoleon. Services were held at Palm Mortuary - Northwest, Las Vegas, Nevada. Mary was laid to rest in Palm Memorial Park - Northwest, Las Vegas, Nevada.

Mary was a good woman, a kind woman, and a practical woman who will for all time be remembered by her family and friends as being warm and deeply caring. She leaves behind her a treasury of life-long friendships and wonderful memories. Mary always had much to give and was able to make those connections in her life where her gifts were appreciated. Mary was a faithful, practical and loving person. Everyone whose life she touched will always remember Mary Ann Horne.

Arrangements under the direction of Palm Northwest-Funeral Home, Las Vegas, NV.