Charlene Maxine Sparks

Charlene Ickes Sparks, born in Fort Worth on July 23, 1928, passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 87 on Monday, Oct. 26, 2015. She is now reunited with those who passed before her and is at peace in the arms of the Lord.

Graveside service: Noon Friday in Moore Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Moore Funeral Home.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations be made to the Humane Society to honor Mrs. Sparks' love of animals.

Mrs. Sparks received a degree as a medical technologist from Bishop Clarkson in Omaha, Neb., in 1950. She later received a bachelor of arts degree in science from TCU in 1959. Following her passion, Mrs. Sparks began a new career as a science teacher in 1960 and continued her education to receive her master's degree in counseling students at Birdville ISD in 1965 and retired from that school district in 1985 after 25 years of service.

Mrs. Sparks was preceded in death by her husband of 40 years, Joe Bob; daughter, Amy; son, Joe Earl; and brothers and sister, Jack, Kendall and Ruthie.

Survivors: She is survived by her son, Tom and wife, Nancy; daughter, Sandra and husband, Jim; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, in-laws, nieces and nephews.