He was born in Carbon Hill, Alabama on November 24, 1934. Bill graduated from Jones Valley High School, received his undergraduate degree at Samford University, and completed his master’s degree at Auburn University.
He married his high school sweetheart, Avis Legrone, on June 2, 1956, beginning a devoted marriage lasting 70 years.
Bill’s career in education and coaching spanned 40 years, beginning in 1959 at Phillips High School, then continuing at Ensley High School. After coaching a year at Mississippi State University, he returned to Midfield High School for 19 years and retired as superintendent of education for the Shelby County school system.
Bill became a Christian at age 15 and served the Lord faithfully throughout his life. He was a member of the Oak Mountain church of Christ for the past 35 years.
Bill – affectionately called "Pal" – is survived by his wife, Avis Sparks; two children, April Holcomb (Allen), and Dawn Sparks; two grandchildren, Will Holcomb (Allison) and Ben Holcomb (Holly); six great-grandchildren, Mabri Anne, Weiss, Greer, Silas, Jane, and Boone Holcomb; and his sister, Nelda Sparks. He was preceded in death by his parents, Claudie and Wilma Sparks; and brother, Gary Sparks.
A visitation will be held in Bill's honor on October 10, 2026 at Southern Heritage Funeral Home from 10:00-11:00 am with a service following at 11:00 am.
