Ida Frances Sparks

Ida Frances "Fran" Sparks, age 92 of Dayton, passed away February 25, 2021. She was born January 31, 1929 in Van Wert, Ohio to the late Jerry Arthur and Mary Anne Thomas. In addition to her parents, Fran was preceded in death by her husband, James L. Sparks, III; daughter, Sylvia Gravitt; and sisters and brother: Elsie Green, Arthella Geppert, Doris Jean Foster, Jackie Wilson and Allen Thomas.

Fran is survived by her daughter, Sharon Mullins (Dennis); step-daughter, Debbie Sparks; step-son, Kim Sparks (Cindy); son-in-law, Russell Gravitt; grandchildren: Stephanie Ison (Steve), Bradley Mullins, Bryan Mullins, Stephen Gravitt, Melinda Mullins (Derek Robinson), Jeff Sparks (Colleen) and Greg Sparks (Stephanie); 8 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Fran retired from Northridge Public Schools, where she was a teacher's aide for many years. She was always proud to have been a dance instructor for injured veterans and teaching dancing to many people. Fran was a hostess at the King Cole in the 1950's, and was a creative brownie leader in the Girl Scout program. She will always be remembered for her dedication to the students of Northridge School District, her lively stories, and her love of her garden and dandelion free lawn. After growing up on the family farm in Van Wert, Fran always identified herself as a farm girl through and through.

A private graveside service for the family will be held at Dayton Memorial Park Cemetery. A celebration of life service will take place at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Newcomer North Chapel, 4104 Needmore Road. Contributions may be made in Fran's memory to Hospice of Dayton. To share a memory of Fran or leave a special message for her family, please click on the Share Memories button above.