Violet Marion Sparks

Violet (Vi) Marion Lovelace Sparks passed away on March 27, 2024 at Lake Manassas Health and Rehabilitation Center in Gainesville, VA. She was the daughter of Francis Millard and Gladys (Fitts) Lovelace. She was born in Miami, Florida on January 4, 1927. Her father was a veteran of WWI and because of injuries received in battle he was awarded the Purple Heart. Besides her parents she was preceded in death by two brothers, both who were veterans: Francis M. Lovelace, Jr. (Navy) and Walter Barton Lovelace (Army). Two sisters: Jeannie Lovelace Wolfe and Gladys Lovelace Smith. She was the last member of her immediate family.

Also preceding her in death in 2004 was her husband Douglas F. Sparks, Sr. a U.S. Navy Veteran of WWII. They were married for 59 years.

Violet is survived by her loving son Douglas Franklin Sparks, Jr. (Ramona) and daughter Linda Gayle Sparks Daniels (Doug). Four grandchildren: Douglas M. Daniels, Jr., Eric H. Daniels, Zachary R. Sparks (Brandi) and Lauren R. Sparks, and ten Great Grandchildren and six Great Great Grandchildren.

Vi’s employment began in high school with the Southern Bell Telephone Company. After marrying the Love of her Life on May 31, 1945 she moved from Florida to his home in Arlington, VA. Her work continued after her children were born with Kann’s Department Store in Arlington, VA. But her real career was her twenty years with American Airlines as a Reservationist. Vi loved children so after leaving the airlines she worked at Ravensworth Elementary School where the children adored her.

Vi and Doug traveled in their retirement and they loved the beaches and fishing on different piers, but their favorite was always Apache Pier at Myrtle Beach, SC. St. Johns Church and her family there always meant so much to her. She was a member of the United Methodist Women, the Senior Saints, and even joined the bell choir for a while. She especially enjoyed visiting and singing for the nursing homes with the Senior Saints. Her other Love was spending time with her family and especially Grandchildren. She will always be remembered for her smile, and her passion for singing and dancing.

In Lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. John UMC, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue, or a charity of your choice.

A visitation for Violet will be held Friday, April 5, 2024 from 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM at St. John United Methodist Church, 5312 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA 22151. A funeral service will occur Friday, April 5, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM, 5312 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA 22151. A graveside service will occur Friday, April 5, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM at Fairfax Memorial Park, 9900 Braddock Road, Fairfax, VA 22032.