JoAnn Ward Sparks

JoAnn Ward Sparks, 86, of Spruce Pine, passed away peacefully at Blue Ridge Regional Hospital.

A native of Mitchell County, she was born January 3, 1939 to the late Charlie Ward and Lucille Buchanan Ward.

JoAnn retired from the textile industry after nineteen years of dedicated service. She attended Bethel Baptist Church. A wonderful cook, she enjoyed providing meals for her family and church family as long as she was able. Her family meant the world to her and she cared for them any way she could. JoAnn will be deeply missed.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Kenneth Sparks; one brother, Gary Ward; and one sister, Dottie Teems.

She is survived by her daughter, Debra Hoilman; two grandchildren, David Hoilman (Betty) and Scott Hoilman (Amanda); four great-grandchildren, Houston Hoilman (Olivia), Justin Silvers (Heather), Hayden Hoilman, and Levi McCurry; one great-great-grandchild, Bentley Hoilman; two brothers, Tim Ward (Michelle) and Gwenn Ward; and two sisters, June Stafford and Jean Kay Reese (Gary).

A memorial service will be held at a later date.