Rebecca “Becky” Tennison Sparks
Born on September 28, 1959 – Passed away on February 19, 2025
Becky was born in Lubbock, Texas, to parents William “Bill” Tennison and Darlene Burrows Tennison.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Darlene Tennison; her paternal grandparents, Lillie Mae Keen Tennison and Willie Tennison; her maternal grandparents, Beulah and Dr. Lilburn Burrows; her father-in-law and step mother-in-law, Cecil and Mary Sparks; and her mother-in-law and step father-in-law, Barbara and Jim Brady.
Becky is survived by her loving and doting husband of 43 years, Cecil “Sparky” Sparks, Jr.; her daughter, Kristen Sparks of Orange; her sons and daughters-in-law, Brandon and Tiffany Sparks of Austin, and Casey and Alex Sparks of San Antonio; her grandson, Cohen Sparks; her brothers and sisters-in-law, Johnny and Gaye Tennison of North Carolina, Jerry and Melissa Tennison of Spring, Texas, and Jimmy and Michelle Tennison of Keller, Texas; her sister and brother-in-law, Michelle and Dan Klenck of Virginia; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles, all of whom she loved dearly. Becky also enjoyed a huge group of friends and church family.
Becky was a loving and caring stay-at-home mother, earning her Bachelor’s degree in education from Lamar University while attending night classes. She spent many years teaching several grade levels at Orangefield Elementary School, Orangefield Junior High, and Little Cypress Elementary. While there, many close and lasting friendships were made.
Becky was always at the center of her family’s activities, hosting holiday celebrations, birthdays, cookouts around the pool, and loving every minute of it. She was the strength of our family, offering comfort, advice, and encouragement. She was our person, our rock.
The highlight of her life centered around the birth of her grandson, Cohen. Being known as Gammy to him, she was often quoted as saying, “He is perfect”.
Most of us are faced with problems and difficulties later in this life, and Becky’s was no exception. In 2022, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and faced chemo, radiation, and immunotherapy with bravery and grace, even through the loss of her hair. She won that battle and became an advocate of self-breast exams for all women, encouraging friends and family to learn how.
It’s often said of someone who has passed away that they were special, loved by family and friends, and will be missed. In her case, these words ring especially true. She never met a stranger and had the ability to make everyone feel special and loved, willing to offer a helping hand to anyone in need. She will truly be missed.
The celebration of Becky’s life will be held at Winfree Baptist Church in Orange under the direction of Claybar Funeral Home on February 25, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., with visitation being one hour before the service. Cremation to be handled by Claybar Funeral Home.
Services will be officiated by our close friend and pastor, Dr. Larry Haynes.
Friends and family alike are invited to share this time with us. She would have loved to have you present.
Psalm 31:26-28 The Wife of Noble Character
She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.
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