Reece O. Sparks

Reece Olney Sparks "Sparky", 78, a longtime Liberty resident, passed away February 28, 2021 in Liberty.

Reece was born April 1, 1942, in Eldon, MO, the eldest of four children of Reece Edward and Claudine (Wright) Sparks. He grew up in Eldon and graduated from high school there. Reece received his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Industrial Arts from Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg.

Reece was united in marriage to Judith Gail Happy on December 7, 1963 and they moved to Liberty in 1964. They were blessed with four children, Deanna, Sallie, David and Paul. In his early years in Liberty, Reece taught Industrial Arts at Liberty High School. He later opened Sparks Welding and Repair at 427 East Mill Street in Liberty where he proudly operated his business for nearly five decades. Reece was known throughout the community for his technical skills and his ability to "fix anything". He had numerous friends that liked to come and spend time with him at the shop. They considered him not only a dear friend, but also a mentor and he loved spending time with them. Reece liked to be able to help others when he could and would generously provide welding and repairs to those in need.

Reece spent the majority of his free time at his beloved lake home at the Lake of the Ozarks which he and Judy owned for over 50 years. He created a beautiful home and welcomed numerous family and friends over the years. Many wonderful memories were created, and Reece welcomed everyone. As a result, extended family and friends bought their own lake places to spend time with their families. The memories at "Sparks Point" at the lake will be cherished for years to come.

Along with his parents, Reece was preceded in death by his sister, Ruth Elaine Sparks. Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Judy; children, Deanna Diebolt (Tim), Sallie Danahy (T.J.), David Sparks (Erin) and Paul Sparks; grandchildren, Savannah Viera (Mic), Alexa Danahy, Reece Sparks and Evan Danahy; siblings, Robert Sparks (Sheryl) and Rosemary Wilhelm (Tom); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and many friends.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 pm Friday, March 5, at Park Lawn Northland Chapel, Liberty. A service celebrating Reece's life will be held at 1:00 pm Saturday, March 6, in the Pleasant Valley Baptist Church chapel. Burial in South Point Cemetery, Orrick, MO.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Children's Mercy Hospital (support.childrensmercy.org/give).

Visitation will be held from 5-7 pm Friday, March 5, at Park Lawn Northland Chapel, Liberty. A service celebrating Reece’s life will be held at 1:00 pm Saturday, March 6, in the Pleasant Valley Baptist Church chapel. Burial in South Point Cemetery, Orrick, MO.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Children’s Mercy Hospital (support.childrensmercy.org/give).