Marilyn Sparks (91) of Effingham

Marilyn Joan Fletcher Sparks, 91, formerly of Beecher City, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023 at Brookstone Estates of Effingham.

She was born March 21, 1931 in Armstrong, Illinois, the daughter of Mae Fletcher, and attended Beecher City schools. She married Sammie Lewis Sparks on Jan. 4, 1947. She was a member and past Matron of the Eastern Star of Shelbyville Chapter 69. For many years, she was a volunteer who scheduled the use of the Beecher City Area Kluthe Center. She also was a charter member of the Beecher City Tri-County Ruritan Club and a member of the Beecher City Kluthe Center Kitchen Band.

She is survived by her husband, Sammie; sons, Samuel Lewis (wife Mary Jane) of Escondido, CA and Eric Stephen (wife Kathy) of Foley, AL; brother, Norman Tutwiler (wife Mitzie); granddaughter, Leslie Kay Sparks; four grandsons Rickie Dale (wife Katie) Sparks, Scott Stephen (wife Sandy) Sparks, Todd Eric (wife Kerri) Sparks, and Nathanial Sparks; step-grandchildren Jennifer Hamilton Morris and Wesley Howard. Also surviving are seven great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her mother; sister, Carol Fay Antrim; and sons Rickie Delane and Mark Douglas.

No services will be held at this time. Gieseking Funeral Home, Altamont is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be expressed by clicking here.