Theresa D. Sparks, age 94, peacefully passed to the next life on August 13th surrounded by her family. Theresa was a greatly beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and a cherished friend to many. Theresa was known for her upbeat personality and positive attitude. She lived a life full of kindness and caring and was dedicated to her four children, three grandchildren and two great grandchildren. She volunteered throughout her life at their schools as volunteer librarian, occasional teacher, and the list goes on. At her church she printed the parish bulletin and performed secretarial duties, and later helped with the funeral food committee and church cleaning committee. She was involved with several civic organizations.
Theresa was born November 26, 1930, to Nioba Davis Doerr and Leonard J Doerr in Kansas City, MO. She attended Cardinal Glennon High School followed by business college where she met the love of her life, Gordon Sparks. They were married in 1950 until his passing in 1986. Following his death, she wanted to keep busy, so she became an administrative assistant to the owner of an import/export business.
Theresa was a wonderful homemaker and chef. She had dinners and parties for large groups of family and friends well into her eighties. She loved traveling and attending events like the Kansas City Civic orchestra performances, and art gallery showings. Theresa’s friends in her exercise class continue to meet for coffee and lively conversation.
She is survived by daughters, Christine Fuller, Anne Yirak (John), Karen Shafie (Shahram) and son, Tim (Lisa); three grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Her funeral will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park, KS 66214 on Tuesday, August 19th. There will be a visitation at 10:00 AM followed by a Rosary at 10:40 AM and Mass at 11:00 AM. Lunch will be provided by the church immediately following the Mass. The burial will take place after lunch at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 7601 Blue Ridge Blvd., Raytown, MO 64137.
