Sparky was laid to rest after a private funeral mass on 10/2/21. He was born on 6/5/42 in New Orleans and left us on 9/24/21 after a brief illness. He grew up in New Orleans surrounded by a close knit family including six crazy siblings, and spent his high school years at St. Stanislaus. He attended Loyola University under the watchful eye of his father where he earned degrees in Speech and Theology. After teaching in New Orleans and Bay St. Louis, he obtained a master’s degree in Technical Theater at LSUNO. While working at Baton Rouge Little Theater (Theatre BR), Sparky met and married the love of his life, Becky Barcelona. They were married for 52 adventurous years. Sparky’s work in theater took them to Purdue, back to BR (several times), Towson State, Shelby (NC), and Atlanta where he founded Dekalb Little Theater (On Stage Atlanta). In 1974 they welcomed the birth of their finest production, daughter Joelle, who joined them on stage and off. In BR, in addition to BRLT, Sparky worked with Playmakers, Aubin Lane Dinner Theater, local high schools, and with dear friend Bill Ernst. Sparky taught speech and religion for several years at Catholic High Pointe Coupee. He appeared in TV shows, commercials, movies, and made a notable appearance as cover boy for dirty LA politics. He also spent many Christmases as the jolly old fellow bringing magic to families across Southern Louisiana. In 1994 he went on stage as a dealer at Casino Rouge. Sparky was a Saints fan from day one and never wore a bag! He also loved LSU football and horseracing. He had an unfailing sense of humor and ability to bring out a laugh. Sparky leaves behind a host of lifelong friends. He is survived by wife Becky, daughter Joelle Hall and husband Eric of Clermont, FL and his pride and joy, grandson Bryce. Also mother-in-law Josie Barcelona and siblings May Fister, Jack Horne (Judy), Danielle DesAngles, Margaret Scafidi (Terry), Maryanne Horne (Carole), Michael Horne (Kay), and multiple nieces and nephews. He joins parents Dan and Isabel “Little” Horne, father-in-law Tot Barcelona, and brothers-in-law Bobby Fister and John DesAngles for a celebration which we’re sure will include martinis (Shoot yeah, man!). In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Joseph’s Academy or Theatre BR.
