Ethel Sparks

Ethel Sparks, 87, widow of the late William Gene Sparks, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2025, at her home in Carlisle, KY surrounded by her loving family. Born in Irvine, KY, she is the daughter of the late Gilbert and Emerine Richardson. Ethel spent her life taking care of others—whether through being a homemaker for her husband and six children or working at Lake Carnico Boat Dock for over 30 years. Ethel loved her family fiercely and if you came around more than once you quickly became family. She would do without to take care of others, and she always had a bed for anyone in need. Her hands built a home, her heart built a family, and her stories-built bridges between generations. Ethel loved visiting with her loved ones, playing cards (she was a bit of a card shark!), listening to old music, and scrapbooking. She loved pictures and taking trips down memory lane. Ethel could tell stories about every picture she had, and she had thousands. Ethel is survived by her children Susan Durbin of Cynthina, KY, Pam (Bill) Stone of Flemingsburg, KY, Vicky (Randy) Mitchell of Cynthiana, KY, Ricky (BJ) Sparks of Carlisle, KY, Doris (Vinnie) Olique of Winchester, KY, and Donny Sparks of Carlisle, KY; two sisters, Pearl (Tommy) Powell of Irvine, KY and Ora (Earl) Hal of Cynthiana, Ky, and two brothers, Eddie (Sue) Richardson of Irvine, KY and Johnnie Richardson of Irvine, KY . She is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild. Ethel also leaves behind her beloved fur babies, Gunner and Frodo. In addition to her husband and parents, she was also preceded in death by 2 grandchildren, Joey Perkins and Chelsey Durbin; one great grandchild, Kadin Walters; one sister, Emma King and three brothers, Gilbert Wayne Richardson, Buel Richardson, and Troy Richardson. Pallbearers will be Billy Richardson, Ricky Sparks Jr., Andy Everman, Eddie Durbin, Will Sparks, Logan Sparks, Ethan Stidham, and Braylen Walters. Ethel touched countless life’s during her 87 years here on Earth. So many people were blessed to know and love her. Her compassion, devotion to family, and generosity will continue to be felt for generations to come. Though Ethel may no longer walk among us, her spirit endures—in the lives she touched and the loved she shared. Funeral services will be held at 11 am. Monday November 10, 2025, at Carlisle-Clark Funeral Home with Bro. Earl Hall officiating with burial following in the Gray Cemetery, Irvine, Kentucky. Visitation Sunday 5 - 7 pm. Carlisle-Clark Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Ethel Sparks

October 10, 1938 - November 5, 2025

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Ethel Sparks

October 10, 1938 - November 5, 2025

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

Obituary Notification