Frances Stephens Sparks, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and dedicated community servant, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and devotion. A long-time resident of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, Frances touched countless lives with her kind heart and gentle spirit.

Born in Spruce Pine, NC in 1947, Frances was the cherished daughter of the late Nathan and Queen Stephens of Burnsville, NC. She is reunited in peace with her son, Scott Sparks, her parents and her siblings, who all preceded her in death: Mona Lee Stephens, Jeff Stephens, Ed Stephens, and Clara Lee Doan.

Central to Frances’s life was her deep and unwavering Christian faith. She possessed a strong belief in Christ, which guided her actions, comforted her in difficult times, and shone through her interactions with everyone she met. Her family takes great comfort in knowing she is now resting in the arms of her Savior.

For 28 years, Frances served her community through her work in the Mitchell County Public School system. Her dedication to the education and well-being of local children left a lasting impact on generations of students and colleagues alike.

Frances was devoted to her family. She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Benny Sparks, and her daughter, Trish Sparks. Frances also took great joy from being a grandmother. Her legacy lives on through her five grandchildren: Nate Sparks, Cooper Sparks, Brodie Sparks, Finley Sparks, and Campbell Sparks.

Frances will be remembered for her steadfast faith, her dedication to her family, and the loving spirit she brought to everything she did. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A service to celebrate the life of Frances will be held on Monday, July 13, at First Baptist Church in Spruce Pine. The family will receive friends during a visitation at 1:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM, officiated by Homer Murdock, Jr.