James L. Sparks, age 74, of Pennington Flat Road, Morehead, passed away Saturday, August 2, 2014, at his residence. Born January 7, 1940, in Haldeman, he was a son of the late Lonnie and Wyona Lewis Sparks. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Franklin and Burel Sparks, and five sisters, Monnie Castle, Dixie Burch, Beatrice Easton, Dorothy Bradley, and Jenny Sparks. James is survived by his wife of 57 years, Brenda Scaggs Sparks, whom he married September 6, 1956; two sons, Rick Sparks and wife Marie of Preston and Matt Sparks and wife Tracy of Morehead; one daughter, Karen DeVaney and husband Greg of Morehead; eight grandchildren, Jamie Sparks, Sheena Ishmael and husband Joey, Matt Martin, Katy Martin, D. J. Warren, Miranda Warren, Haley DeVaney, and Haven DeVaney; and three great grandchildren, Ross Sparks, Hannah Sparks, and Ray Sparks. Other survivors include one brother, Noel B. Sparks and wife Rachel of Muncie, Indiana; one sister-in-law, Ruth Blevins and her husband Danny (James's best friend); several nieces and nephews; extended family members; and many friends. James began his career with Gene White Lumber, where he worked 13 years. He then became a heavy equipment operator for Tennessee Gas Pipeline and retired in 1997 after 28 years of service. Following his retirement, he did contract work for Energy Management Services, Marathon Oil, and other pipeline contractors. He enjoyed gardening, watching dirt track racing, and spending time with family, especially his grandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted 1 p.m. Wednesday, August 6, 2014, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Memorial Chapel with Pastor Alan Hutchinson and Brother Jamie Sparks officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers: Greg DeVaney, Matt Martin, Danny Blevins, Sr. , Danny Blevins, Jr., Dowe Blevins, Darren Blevins, and Derrick Blevins. Visitation is after 5 p.m. Tuesday, August 5, 2014, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals in Morehead. Memorial contributions suggested to Morehead First Church of God, 576 Sunset Drive, Morehead, KY 40351. View memorial tribute or sign guestbook at www.northcuttandson.com Visitation: Tuesday, August 5, 2014, after 5 p.m. Funeral: Wednesday, August 6, 2014, at 1:00 p.m. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens