Mr. Boyd Sparks

Mr. Boyd Sparks, age 91 of Baptist Valley, Virginia passed away on Thursday, February 06, 2014 in a Tazewell area hospital following a lengthy illness. He was born in Bandy, Virginia and was the son of the late William and Hannah Mae Bandy Sparks. He was a dedicated coal miner for over 70 years and worked for Jewell Ridge Coal Company and Pittston Coal Company. He was a member of the UMWA Local # 1760 and lifelong resident of the Bandy area. Boyd liked old cars and enjoyed gardening until he lost the battle with the weeds, then he would say “I am done, the weeds won”. Many of his friends would tell you that once you knew Boyd, you never forgot him. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his sweetheart and loving wife of 66 years, Nora Mila Bandy Sparks; His twin brother, Loyd Sparks; brothers, Armster, George, Lawerence, Ed and Kinzer Sparks; sisters, Ruby Sparks Brewster and Bethie Kinder. Nephews and niece, George Armster Sparks, Jr., Charles Sparks, Richard and Eula Brewster Bentley. Those who remain to carry on his spirit are: His daughter, Bonnie Cook and Son in law Paul “Slick” Cook of Richlands, VA Nephew and caregiver, Sam Bentley Granddaughter, Ami Mullins and husband, Scott of Abingdon, VA Great grandchildren, Emma, Scottie II, Isabella and Mila Special caregivers was Gary and the caring staff of Carilion Hospital of Tazewell. Last but not least is his faithful feline friend, “Tomcat” Funeral services for Boyd Sparks will be at 6:00 pm on Sunday evening, February 9, 2014 at the Hurst-Scott Funeral Chapel in Richlands, Virginia with the Rev. Mike Altizer officiating. A private burial will be Held on Monday for the family. Pallbearers will be Tommy Bandy, Barry Muzzleman, Randall Brown, Brent Beavers, Brad Scott and Corion Cornette. Honorary Pallbearers will be Sam Bentley, Jimmy Johnson, Harman Lester, Larry Hargett, Mary Ruth Steele and Sharon Bandy. Friends may call beginning at 4:00 pm on Sunday until time of service at 6:00 pm. The family has asked any donations be made to The Shriners Children Hospital in honor of Scottie Mullins II; 950 W. Faris Rd; Greenville, SC 29605-4277. Hurst-Scott Funeral Home in Richlands Virginia is in charge of arrangements and those wishing to express sympathy online may do so at www.hurstscottfuneralhomes.com.

Mr. Boyd Sparks

September 16, 1922 - February 6, 2014