Charlene D. Sparks

Charlene Delores Sparks nee Hicks passed away Monday, November 29th, 2010 surrounded by her family. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio on February 22, 1948, Charlene lived in Orlando, Florida for the last 27 years of her life. She is survived by her husband of over 46 years, Ronald E. Sparks of Orlando, daughter Rhonda Sparks Norheim of Melbourne, FL, sons Ronald E. Sparks and Russell E. Sparks both of Orlando, brother Charles E. Hicks and sister MaryLou Byrd of Cincinnati, Ohio, parents-in-law Ronald and Hershel Sparks of Orlando, ten grandchildren, and one great granddaughter.
Charlene's life epitomized love and the greatest joys of her life were her children and grandchildren. A teacher for the Orlando public school system for 18 years, Charlene enjoyed teaching her grandchildren to read, helping them with their homework, and giving lots of hugs. Recognized as Orange County teacher-of-the-year in 2000, Charlene continued, long after retirement, to touch the lives of children she knew with her words of wisdom and loving guidance.
An avid seamstress, Charlene employed her skills to create clothing and crafts as gifts to her children and grandchildren, from prom dresses to Cabbage Patch dolls. She also enjoyed crocheting and embroidery and taught several children and grandchildren those arts so that they might continue the traditions she learned from her own mother.
Charlene will be missed by everyone who knew her, family, friends and neighbors alike. Her life represented a true testament to motherhood and unconditional love and acceptance. Her children wish to thank her for her love and support, for making three-way chili whenever we asked, and for never failing to laugh at our jokes. We love you and will remember you with love every day for the rest of our lives.