Charles "Chuck" Sparks, Jr.

Charles H. Sparks, Jr (Chuck), 74, went home to be with his Lord on May 14, 2026, after years of health challenges and a brief illness.

A native of Kings Mountain, NC, he was preceded in death by his parents, Charles H. Sparks, Sr (Herman) and Chloe Sparks. After his marriage, he moved to Burlington, NC. He was the husband and caregiver to his late wife, Lana Burke Sparks, who passed in May 2022. He was a member of Glen Hope Baptist Church where he taught the Ladies Bible Class.

He is survived by his daughter, Julianne Sparks Martin and her husband, Todd, his grandsons Benjamin (Benji) and Alexander (Alex) along with his grand dog, Blue, his sister, Karen Sparks Plonk of Charleston, SC and his sister-in-law, Susan Burke Bishop and brother-in-law, Tom.

Chuck was employed at Elon University as the supervisor of the university’s mail center. Following his retirement, he spent most mornings enjoying breakfast with his friends at Biscuitville on South Church Street.

In August of 2017, he faced the biggest challenge of his life when he underwent a heart transplant at Duke University Medical Center. His new heart (nicknamed Harvey by his family) was a gift from God. He was forever grateful to the organ donor hero who saved his life. He felt incredibly blessed by the extended time God gave him to care for his wife and spend time with his family.

When his wife passed in 2022, he moved to Atlanta to live with his daughter’s family. He was known as PopPop to Benji and Alex. Over the past 4 years, he created a legacy of unconditional love, support, compassion, strength, generosity and bravery! It would seem appropriate that he loved the Atlanta Braves!

As he faced various health concerns, he often said that he “should not even be here”. He recognized God’s gift of life and made the best of whatever came his way. He would say as Paul said, “I have learned to be content”. “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” (Philipians 4:11)

What an amazing example he left for us! To God be ALL the glory!

A celebration of his life will be held on June 20, 2026, at 11am at Alamance Memorial Park. The family requests you wear Atlanta Braves colors to remember Chuck’s love for his favorite team and his example of bravery!