Paul Raymond Sparkman, Jr., of Anna, Texas, was called to his Eternal home on March 18, 2025, at the age of 72.
He was born to Paul Sr. and Doris (Swain) Sparkman on June 24, 1952, in Lubbock, Texas.
The life Paul lived in the years in between was filled with a lot of laughter, compassion, and a deep sense of devotion to those he loved.
Paul was a graduate of Coronado High School in Lubbock, before earning his bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University, but many years prior to that—in second grade, to be exact—he met the love of his life, Judy Peveler. These high school sweethearts would go on to get married on July 16, 1971, in Lubbock, Texas, in a love story described by those closest to them as “epic.”
We could tell you about the many years he enjoyed working in sales at Wedge Supply in Garland, how he never met a stranger, always had a hankering for smoked brisket and aspired to spend his days at a pool or the beach. But what we want those who knew him to remember about Paul was his fierce love for his family, his genuine warmth and his passion for all things hunting, fishing and fast cars—specifically Corvettes.
Above all else, Paul loved the Lord. He knew that his salvation was in Christ alone, and at the tender age of 19 he led Judy to accept Jesus Christ as her Savior as well. Throughout their 53 years of marriage, they leaned on their faith as their foundation through every season of life. And, as Paul peacefully took his last breath with Judy and their children by his side, they held tight to God’s promise of Eternal Life for those who believe in Jesus Christ and follow His teachings.
Paul had many titles, including Recording Secretary for the Lonestar Corvette Club, but one of his favorites was “Bop.” He loved baseball and always showed up to support his children and grandchildren in their sports and activities. His pride and joy were his two children, Tye and David, and his grandchildren, Parker and Garrett.
Paul is survived by his wife, Judy Sparkman of Anna; daughter, Tye Lynn Hartman and husband, Greg, of McKinney, Texas; son, David Paul Sparkman and wife, Cortney of Cumming, Georgia; grandchildren, Parker Reeves Hartman and Garrett Paul-Henry Hartman, both of McKinney, Texas; and his beloved pup, Izzy, and grand-pups, Magnolia Pearl, Millie and Ranger. He is also survived by his sister, Karen Day and husband, Ron, of Knoxville, Tennessee; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Sr. and Doris Sparkman, and sister, Marcia Adams.
Paul had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel like they were the most important person in the room. His life was a testament to the values of hard work and integrity, and the impact he made on those who knew him will be felt for many years to come. Whether through his infectious sense of humor or that beautiful blue sparkle in his eyes, we will cherish every story, every memory, every mention of his name until we see him again.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Crosspoint Church, 2101 S. Stonebridge Drive, McKinney, Texas 75072, and celebrate we will. The family requests that all in attendance wear bright colors, tropical patterned attire or Hawaiian shirts – affectionately known by his grandsons as “Bop” shirts.
The family will receive guests for a Remembrance Gathering from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Friday evening at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.
In lieu of flowers, Paul requested memorial contributions be made to two organizations very dear to his heart: Scottish Rite for Children and Morgan’s Field of Dreams.
Scottish Rite for Children:
Donate Now - Scottish Rite for Children (convio.net)
Alternatively, friends and family may send a check to: Scottish Rite for Children, Attention: Development 2222 Welborn Street Dallas, Texas 75219. Please ensure that Paul Sparkman’s name is included on the memo line of the check to help us properly honor his memory.
Morgan’s Field of Dreams: https://morgansfieldofdreams.org/donate/.