Wanda Sparks

Wanda Benner Sparks

June 26, 1934-September 27, 2022

Wanda Benner was born on June 26, 1934 to Alta Fay Sharpe Benner and Carl Benner. Wanda was a high-spirited young girl who met and married her Knox City High School teacher, Wesley Perle Sparks.  Out of this union, came two children, Constance and Terry.  Wanda spent her time nurturing her family and assisting Wesley as he studied in college and later taught music at schools in Iowa and Missouri.  Wanda was an accomplished classical pianist and served as the primary accompanist for Wesley's students during his tenure at these schools.  She also frequently played at school functions and weddings.  After their children were grown, Wanda worked as a pastry chef at various St. Louis restaurants and did volunteer work at Christian Northeast Hospital.  Her desserts were legendary and were frequently written up in books and magazines in the St. Louis area.

After retirement, Wanda and Wesley moved from St. Louis to Kirksville, Missouri where Wanda and Wesley became members of Church of God Holiness where they developed many special friendships.

Wanda was preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, Wesley Sparks, her parents, and her brother, Carl Wayne Benner.

Wanda is survived by her daughter, Constance and son-in-law, John Toler; her son, Terry and daughter-in-law, Cheryl; her Grandchildren, Laura Dale and husband, David; Ryan Sparks and wife, Adie; Shawn Sparks and wife, Aubrey; Eric Sparks and wife, Jenna; and her sister-in-law, Carol Benner.  In addition, she is survived by thirteen Great Grandchildren, 6 nieces and nephews, and many special friends.

A graveside service will be held at 1:30 on Wednesday, October 5, at Park View Memorial Gardens in Kirksville, Missouri.

Arrangements in the care of Davis-Playle-Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home in Kirksville, MO; www.davisplaylehudsonrimer.com.