Thomas J. Sparks

Thomas J. Sparks, 87, of East Liverpool, passed away peacefully at his residence on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025.

Born on Oct. 18, 1937, in East Liverpool, he was the son of the late Thomas E. and Blanche Frazier Sparks. A lifelong resident of the area, Tom attended East Liverpool schools before proudly serving his country in the United States Army. He retired from Penn Power after many years of dedication.

Tom was known for his love of golf and was an avid fan of the Cleveland Browns. He cherished time spent with his family.

He is survived by his fiancee, Judy Schondelmayer; his daughter, Lisa Sparks of Chester, W.Va.; and his son, Steven T. Sparks (Renee) of Grand Rapids, Mich. He also leaves behind his step-grandchildren, Finnegan and Lillian Rohs; and his brothers, James Sparks (Mary) of Brentwood, Tenn., and John Sparks (Debi) of Florida.

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his loving wife, Shirley Holland Sparks; and by his brothers, William and Emery Sparks.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, at the Arner Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Mark Blakeley officiating. Friends may visit with the family two hours prior to the service, from 2 to 4 p.m. A private interment will follow at Columbiana County Memorial Park.

9/24/25