Janet Marion "Sparky Jo" Sparks

March 12, 1944 - April 2, 2021

Janet Marion "Sparky Jo" Goad Sparks was born March 12, 1944 in San Diego, CA the daughter of the late Robert F. and Mary Magdalene Weeks Goad. She was united in marriage to Richard Sparks on August 27, 1966. Janet was a member of the Selmer High School class of 1962. She attended Freed-Hardeman College in Henderson for two years and graduated from the University of Memphis with a bachelor's degree in Education. Janet taught in the McNairy County School System for 31 years, earning the moniker "Sparky Jo" from her colleagues. She also served as MCHS Football Cheer sponsor for more than a decade-Janet touched many young hearts during her tenure as a teacher and sponsor. Reading and gardening were among her favorite pastimes, as well as long walks on the beach to collect sea shells, which she would meticulously clean and display throughout her home. Janet was a talented seamstress who could sew, cross-stitch, needlepoint, and embroider; one of the first possessions she and Richard acquired was a sewing machine. Janet served on the Jack McConnico Library Board, volunteered with the McNairy County Election Commission for many years, and was active in her high school alumni organization. She was a member of the Retired Teacher's Association and the Fourth Street church of Christ in Selmer. Janet departed this life on April 2, 2021 in Jackson, Tennessee at the age of 77 Years, 21 Days. She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Richard Sparks of Selmer, TN; two sons, Lee Sparks and wife Sabrina of Jackson, TN and Rob Sparks and wife Penny Lane of Selmer, TN; two granddaughters, Alexis Wehn and Lily Sparks; and many extended family and friends. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.