Barbara Joyce Sparks-Buckner

Barbara Joyce Sparks-Buckner was born August 24, 1954 to the late Roger Webster Sparks and Oralene Theresa Sparks. On Tuesday, August 2, 2022, Barbara Joyce Sparks-Buckner, affectionately known as “Nonie” was called home to be with the Lord at the tender age of sixty-seven.

Barbara attended South Shore High School and was a dedicated student, earning a full academic scholarship to University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. After completing two years of course work, she then served our Country as Proud member of the United States Marine Corp. Barbara was a trailblazer, paving the way for three of her beautiful nieces to also serve our Country in their respective branches of service. Barbara graduated from Roosevelt University with a Bachelors degree in Marketing and also earned Graduate certification in Paralegal Studies.

Barbara had extensive career in public service and worked for the Federal Reserve Bank; Internal Revenue Service; Illinois United States Attorney’s and Perkins Coie Chicago. She later worked for and retired from Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital.

Barbara had a curious mind and a thirst for knowledge. She was a scholar and most importantly a lifelong learner. She enjoyed science, specifically chemistry and astrology. In retirement, she could still recount the elements of the periodic table and knew them like the back of her hand. Because of her love for astrology, on many clear nights you could find her examining the sky with her telescope.

Barbara carved out four years of her adult life to live abroad in Europe and made life-long friendships. In addition to living in Europe, Barbara’s love for travel and culture has taken her to Asia, Africa, the Caribbean Islands and Mexico.

Barbara will be remembered most for her fierce determination, generous spirit, love for nature and most of all her family. During her final days, Barbara spent them with family and cheering for her granddaughter at dance competitions.

Barbara Joyce is survived by her Daughter Aneesah Harris; Son-in-law Khalif Harris, Granddaughter Zoe Harris, Ex-Spouse Gregory Buckner, Siblings: Phyllis Sparks, Dorothy Sparks, Roger Sparks Jr. & Willie Herman Sparks and a host of Loving Nieces, Nephews and Friends.

For those closest to her, you would often hear her closing out sentences with a cheerful, “Okay”!

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.blakelamboaklawn.com for the Sparks-Buckner family.