Ann Sparkman Green

Ann Sparkman Green: A life of Faith, Love, and Service Ann Sparkman Green went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at the age of 94. A devout Christian, Ann loved Jesus, studied His Word, and lived her faith through kindness, love, and a steadfast commitment to others.

Ann was born in Marshall, Texas, in 1932. She graduated from John Tyler High School and attended Tyler Junior College, where she was a member of the world-renowned Apache Belles.

In 1951, Ann married George Thurman Sparkman Sr., whom she had met at a church dance in Tyler. George served in the Navy during the Korean War, and the couple made their first home in San Diego, California. Their first son, George Jr., was born at the Naval Hospital there in 1952.

Following George’s discharge from the Navy, they returned to Tyler before moving to Austin, where both earned their bachelor’s degrees from The University of Texas. Ann earned her degree in education, beginning a career devoted to teaching and encouraging young children.

After graduation, Ann and George began teaching in Sweeny, Texas. They welcomed their second son, Lee Wayne Sparkman, in 1963. In 1969, George left teaching to pursue a career as a safety engineer, and the family moved to Dallas. His career with ARCO later took them to Lafayette, Louisiana; Anchorage, Alaska; and eventually back to Dallas. Throughout her teaching career, Ann taught elementary school in Sweeny, Dallas, and Richardson. After retiring, she remained an active member of the Texas State Teachers Association.

Ann and George joined First United Methodist Church Richardson (FUMCR), where Ann became an active member of the Pathfinders Sunday School Class and served in several leadership roles. They shared 48 years of marriage before George’s passing in 1999. During his five-year struggle with Alzheimer’s disease, Ann was by his side every day. Her unwavering devotion to George reflected the depth of her love and faith. She often spoke of “mind over matter,” a conviction she tied to Christ's teachings.

Ann loved people and had a gift for making friends wherever she went—she truly never met a stranger. Her desire to care for others led her to become a Stephen Minister, a role that offered a meaningful way to support people in times of need. Her faith guided, comforted, and strengthened her throughout her life.

Ann’s generosity and enthusiasm extended throughout her community. In addition to her involvement with FUMCR, she was a member of P.E.O., the Bluebonnet Club, and the Richardson Women’s Club. She was also deeply involved with the Plano and Richardson symphonies, including service on the Board of Directors. In recognition of her generous contributions of time and philanthropic support, the Richardson Symphony Orchestra honored her with its prestigious Heart for the Arts Award.

Ann loved entertaining and frequently welcomed friends and family into her home for luncheons and dinner parties. A lifetime member of Texas Exes and a longtime member of the Texas Legends Club, she was an avid Longhorn fan who continued attending UT home football games well into her 80s.

In May 2004, Ann married General Forrest Green. Together, they enjoyed traveling, entertaining, and spending time with family. Ann was especially delighted that Forrest joined her at UT home football games each fall. They eventually made their home at Highland Springs Senior Living Community in Dallas, where Ann embraced community life with her characteristic warmth and enthusiasm. She organized numerous events, served as an Ambassador, and served on the Philanthropy Committee. Many knew Ann as the Rose Lady for her kind outreach to residents, bringing a single rose to brighten their day. After Forrest’s passing in 2017, her cherished friendships at Highland Springs gave her love, companionship, and encouragement as she continued to live life to the fullest.

Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Roy Lee Sisk and Gladys Jordan Sisk of Marshall, Texas; her husband of 48 years, George T. Sparkman Sr.; and her husband, General Forrest Green.

She is survived by her two sons, George T. Sparkman Jr. and his wife, Susan Kelley Sparkman, and Lee Wayne Sparkman; her grandchildren, Ashley Harder and her husband, Andy, and Kelley Sparkman and his wife, Terri; and her three great-grandsons, Hudson Harder, Nash Harder, and Andrew “Drew” Sparkman. She is also survived by sister and brother-in-law, John and Marilyn Roppolo, five nieces, five nephews, and 24 great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom she loved dearly.

Ann will be laid to rest alongside her husband, George T. Sparkman Sr., at Dallas–Fort Worth National Cemetery.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the Arbor Room at Highland Springs, 8000 Frankford Road, Dallas, Texas 75252.