Kay Marie Sparks, the widow of Ralph L. Sparks, passed away on November 2nd, in her Waco home.

Born to Violette May and David Kayle Phillips, Kay moved with her parents and two siblings to Waco from Akron, Ohio in 1946 at the age of 3 when her father was transferred to General Tire and Rubber Co.

Kay committed to her Christian faith at an early age, attending Austin Avenue Methodist Church as a youth and being a part of the Methodist Youth Fellowship. She briefly attended both Baylor University and the University of Texas at Austin, pledging Delta Zeta, and studying Business Administration. She left college to care for her father after the passing of her mother.

In 1965, Kay embarked on a distinguished career in the insurance industry, dedicating over 40 years to the field. She advanced steadily, ultimately achieving the position of Claims Manager. Throughout her career, she worked for several companies, including Philadelphia American Life Insurance Company, American Amicable Life Insurance Company, and General American Life Insurance Company. Her professional journey is a testament to her commitment and leadership in the industry.

Her heart for service shone brightly through her unwavering dedication to numerous organizations, where she consistently demonstrated compassion, commitment, and selflessness. As a member of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority (Laureate Gamma Epsilon chapter), she served on various committees and as vice president of the chapter. Kay was recognized as the Sweetheart of the sorority, received the Order of the Rose, and the Silver Circle Award for 25 years of service. She was also an active and passionate member of the McLennan County Republican Women. Following her enthusiasm for bowling, Kay was an active member of the Women’s Majors Bowling League, serving as vice president during her time. As a graduate of Waco High School Class of 1960, Kay attended and helped to organize numerous reunions.

She was an enthusiastic encourager and a faithful supporter of her husband’s musical pursuits, always present at Ralph’s performances, assisting with CD sales, signings, tickets, and more.

Known affectionately as “the cat lady” by those who loved her, Kay’s enduring love for animals was evident, especially in the numerous cats she lovingly took in and cared for over the years.

Kay married at the tender age of 19 and, in 1965, found herself a single mother with two young children, Stephen and Shelly Frierson. Demonstrating unwavering determination and boundless love for her children, Kay bravely moved to Dallas, embarking on a professional career in the insurance industry to provide for her family. Her strength and resilience during these challenging times were a testament to her profound devotion as a mother.
In 1980, she married Ralph Sparks and relocated back to her hometown of Waco. After dating in high school and then losing touch, they reconnected years later, discovering that their true love had been waiting for them all along. After marrying, they blended their families, bringing their combined seven children together and creating a family filled with new bonds and shared experiences. They joined the First Woodway Baptist Church in 1980, finding a faith home and decades of friendship and support.

Kay is survived by her seven children: Stephen Hall Frierson (and spouse Tara) of Ruidoso, NM; Shelly Rustanne Frierson of Waco; Lauri Ann Sparks Luedeker (and spouse William “Buddy”) of Waco; Teri Lynn Sparks McGuill (and spouse David) of Fort Worth; Kevin Christopher Sparks (and spouse Melodi) of Lorena; Jamie Lee Sparks (and spouse Missy) of Robinson; and Timothy Howard Sparks. Together, they have fourteen grandchildren: Jeremy Luedeker, Aaron Luedeker, Brendan Luedeker, Charles McGuill, Madison Sparks, Zoe Sparks, Justin Hall, Casey Hall, Tyler Sparks, Jeremy Archibeque, Luke Archibeque, Jordan Frierson Reynolds, Kayle Frierson, and Hayden Frierson; and eighteen great-grandchildren, with one on the way. She is also survived by her stepsister Diedre Coffell, stepbrother William Oswald and numerous nephews and nieces.

She is preceded in death by her husband Ralph Sparks, her parents David and Violette Phillips, her stepmother Anita Phillips-Huggins, sister Carol Johannsen, her brother David Phillips, and her grandson Brendan Luedeker.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to friends and family who provided love and support to Kay and Ralph through meals, cards, visits, and calls during their time of need.

Visitation for Kay and Ralph will be held on Thursday, November 14th, from 3-7 p.m. at Grace Gardens Funeral Home. Services for Kay and Ralph will take place on Friday, November 15th, at 1 p.m. at First Woodway Baptist Church, followed by interment at 3:30 p.m. at Waco Memorial Park. Pallbearers and honorary pallbearers will include their sons, grandsons, and friends.

Memorial contributions can be made to Fuzzy Friends Rescue, 6321 Airport Road, Waco, TX 76708, or to the charity of your choice in Kay’s memory. Kay Sparks will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Her life was a testament to her heart of service, unwavering commitment to her Christian faith, and love for her family and friends.

Pictures of Kay at Reunions and other gatherings.

Ralph Sparks preceeded Kay in death by less than two weeks. Here is his obit.

Entered into eternal rest peacefully surrounded by his loved ones. Adored and devoted husband of Gia Coone (nee Alessandra); James was the honored father of Shannon (Michael) Coyle and Sheldon (Ashley) Coone; cherished grandfather of Austin Coyle, Bailey Coyle and Braxton Coone; dear brother of the late Billy Coone; beloved brother-in-law of Lesa (Detlef) Whitlow and Thomas Aurelio, Jr. (Amy Benko); dearest uncle and godfather of Samuel Whitlow; predeceased by his loving parents, Linden and Louise Coone; also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

James was a kind and generous man. He had a fun-loving spirit and quick wit. He loved his family dearly, good barbecue and everything Texas. He will be missed by all who knew him.

James worked his entire career in construction management, specializing in large scale hotels, banks and retail properties across the country.

The family will be present to receive friends on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024 from 2:00 – 7:00 PM at the (Amherst Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 5200 Sheridan Drive (corner Hopkins Rd.) where prayers will be offered on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024 at 9:45 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM in St. Gregory the Great Church, 100 St. Gregory Ct. Interment to follow in Holy Cross Cemetery.

Share condolences online at AMIGONE.com

Some pictures of James at our Reunions.

Doris Jean Dickerson, affectionately known as Jeannie, left this world October 22, 2024, surrounded by loving family, who forever cherish the warmth of her spirit and the depth of her compassion. Born on March 16, 1942, in Waco to the late Lionel Jackson and Othello Emogene Crumpton Dickerson, Jeannie lived a life marked by dedication, resilience, and love.

Jeannie had a distinguished career that spanned over 50 years, working as a Nurse and Nursing Supervisor. Her commitment to patient care earned her numerous accolades, a true testament to her outstanding dedication and passion for those she served. She found profound joy and fulfillment in her work, always making time to listen, comfort, and provide care to her patients. Even beyond her professional life, her loving nature resonated through every interaction she had. Whether it was with her family, friends, or her beloved fur babies, her care for others was evident and unwavering.

Jeannie’s educational pursuits reflected her commitment to excellence and lifelong learning. A proud graduate of Waco High School, she attended Hillcrest School of Nursing, where she began nurturing her calling. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from The University of Texas, followed by two Master’s degrees — one in Nursing Administration from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, and another in Geriatric Nursing from Baylor University. Each step of her educational journey exemplified her determination to excel and to uplift those around her. She was a longtime member of Columbus Avenue Church of Christ, where she enjoyed sharing in the love of Christ and development many lifelong friendships.

Her family and friends will remember Jeannie not only for her professional achievements but also for the love and light she brought into their lives. She is survived by her brother, Wendell Dickerson, and his wife, Carolyn; her niece, Jennifer Villanueva, and her husband, Louis; her nephews, Dave Lionel Dickerson and his wife, Courtney, and Samuel Wendell Dickerson and his wife, Julie. Jeannie enjoyed a special bond with her great-nieces and nephews: Sam Villanueva, Emma Villanueva, Rowan Jean Dickerson, Annie Dickerson, Hudson Dickerson, Henry Dickerson, Levi Dickerson, and Wyatt Dickerson. Alongside her caring family, her three faithful canine companions remained by her side, mirroring her softness and loyalty. Jeannie is also survived by numerous cousins, along with many friends and colleagues who admired her boundless kindness.

Jeannie was preceded in death by her parents, Lionel Jackson Dickerson and Othello Emogene Crumpton, whose legacies of love and support fostered the nurturing soul we all knew.

Jeannie’s family would like to offer their heartfelt gratitude to Kathy Norton and Nancy Mullens for their compassionate care of Jeannie during her last weeks. Their Christian love was sorely needed and will not be forgotten. In every way, Jeannie, shaped lives and inspired many with her selfless heart. As her family gathers to remember her, they will celebrate the love she shared, the lives she touched, and the indelible mark she leaves on their hearts. The essence of her being — her passion for family, care for others, and love for her furry companions — will remain a guiding light, forever cherished and missed.

Those wishing to make memorial contributions in Jeannie’s honor are requested to do so to Fuzzy Friends of Waco or The American Diabetes Association.
The family invites you to leave a message or memory of Jeannie on her, “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.

Leslie Earl Hanks, 82, passed away September 10, 2024, at home.

The funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Monday September 16, 2024, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home with Senior Pastor, Steve Heyduck officiating. Interment will follow at Waco Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., Sunday September 15, 2024, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey in the Garden Room.

Leslie preferred to be called Les, but he was better known as Dad and Papaw to the many kids and grandkids that he loved and that loved him. Les was born in 1942, in Corsicana, Texas. He started working at a very young age in Waco, Texas, to make sure his mom had enough to take care of him and his brother. He possessed this strong work ethic and desire to be a caretaker for his loved ones ‘till the end. Les attended Texas A&M University, graduating in 1964. He was a Fightin’ Texas Aggie his whole life. On February 19, 1965, Les married the love of his life Kay Hanks. At the time of his death, they were married for 59 years. Les became a CPA after college and was well known for his business acumen and his unparalleled integrity. He loved horses, was an avid reader, enjoyed watching old Western movies and his Aggies every time possible.

Les was preceded in death by his mother, Callie Hanks; and his father, Edwin Hanks.

Survivors include his wife, Kay Hanks; and his three children, Les Hanks Jr., Lisa Hanks and Deana Bauerle. Les is also survived by his grandchildren, Cameron, Sylvia, Stephani, Hannah, Mary and Josh; his brother, Don Hanks; and great-grandchildren, Tripp, Emma and Tuff.
The family invites you to leave a message or memory on Les’ “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.

Alton R. Stone, Sr., age 83, of Whitney, passed away late Saturday evening, August 31, 2024, at Hill Regional Hospital in Hillsboro.

A Funeral Service will be held 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West with Rev. Jesse Motley officiating. Burial will follow at New Lebanon Cemetery near Aquilla. The family will receive visitors from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home.

Alton was born February 18, 1941, in Waco, the son of Nathan Boyd and Edna (York) Stone. He was a graduate of Waco High School and attended Baylor University. On February 14, 1967, he was united in marriage to Helen Benton in Leavenworth, Kansas. Helen preceded him in death on October 2, 2008. Alton proudly served his country in the United States Army and was stationed at Ft. Hood. He spent time in Vietnam, Korea, Turkey, Germany, Thailand, and various bases around the world. He was a member of VFW Post #12176 in Whitney, Odd Fellows, and the American Rifle Foundation. He worked as a Correctional Officer for the State of Texas for many years. Alton enjoyed hunting, fishing, and all things outdoors, being a true outdoorsman. He also spent leisure time with HAM radio operating, but his true joy was spending time with family and friends. He was a member of Aquilla Baptist Church.

Alton is also preceded in death by his parents, and a brother-in-law, Clayton Howard.

Survivors include his son, Alton Stone Jr. and wife Tonya; grandchildren, Chad, Amanda, and Crystal; seven great-grandchildren; his sisters, Cora Black and husband Johnny, Louie Lee Fulton and husband Wylie, Edna Bosley and husband Michael, Frances Howard, and Mary Lou Nichols and husband David; brother, James M. Stone and wife Eleonore; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Pallbearers are Chad Stone, Jonathan Nichols, Jonathan Henderson, Clay Sparks, Caden Whaley and Dwayne Howard.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church in Aquilla (P.O. Box 39 Aquilla, Texas 76622).

Sammy Tucker Owens, 82, of Kerrville, TX, passed away on July 30, 2024. He passed away comfortably on hospice after being diagnosed with bladder cancer one year ago. He was born and raised in Waco, TX to Sam Mode Owens and Clariece Tucker on July 1, 1942. Sammy married Charlene Lynette Landfried on January 24, 1964, in Waco, TX.

Sammy graduated from Waco High School, class of 1960. He played shortstop for the Tigers Baseball along with participating in pole vault and high jump. Sammy received a business degree from Sam Houston State University.

Sammy joined the Army National Guard of Texas in April 1966 until honorable discharge in December 1971. He continued his support of veterans through different endeavors throughout the years, most recently as a member of The American Legion Post #208 in Kerrville.

Sam had a 35-year career with Baxter Healthcare serving in many capacities. He started as a sales representative in San Antonio, TX in 1971; promoted to Regional Manager in Virginia; promoted to Area Vice President out of Dallas serving the Southwest U.S. and later the Western half of the U.S. He was a key member of the sales force to convert I.V. fluids from glass to plastic. He was awarded many incentive trips all over the world which he and Charlene enjoyed. His greatest accomplishment was the many people he promoted, enhancing them and their family’s lives. He considered Baxter personnel as family and treated them as such. He was loved and respected by many and will be truly missed.

Sam started playing golf in his 30s and never looked back. His golf interest and talent lead him to some of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses across the country in tournaments with friends, 3 hole-in-ones, lifelong friendships and stories to share.

Sam was a member of Great Southwest Golf Club in Grand Prairie in his early years while also joining friends at Colonial Country Club in Ft. Worth for uncountable times and tournaments. Then he enjoyed the remainder of his golfing ability locally at Comanche Trace Golf Club until back issues supported him to hang up the club and enjoy the golf channel from his recliner. He was grateful for the travel experiences of being a spectator during the US Open, PGA Championship and The Masters Tournament on a few occasions.

Sam and Charlene lived in Arlington, TX for 35 years. They faithfully supported the Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys and continued to do so when they moved to Kerrville in 2011 to be closer to their grandsons. Sam was an active grandfather with many memories made supporting their athletics and school activities, driving golf carts, golfing, swimming and building fires.

Sammy was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Charlene, who he shared 61 years together. Sammy is survived by his only child, daughter, Michelle Karon Chancellor and husband Jon of Kerrville, TX; grandsons, Ian and Adam Chancellor of Kerrville, TX; brother, Bobby Owens (Kitty) of Burleson, TX; cousin, Ann Hawkins of Dallas, TX; sisters-in-law, Karon Sullivant (Larry) of Gainesville, TX and Celia Kramer (Ronnie) of New Braunfels, TX; nephews, Marshall Owens (Jennifer) of Mansfield, TX and John Owens (Audrey) of Burleson, TX, Burke Sullivant (Toni) of Gainesville, TX, Christopher Thompson (Lindsey) of San Antonio, TX, Mark Thompson (Marissa) of San Antonio, TX; and many great-nephews and great-nieces.

Memorial donations may be sent to the local Tivy High School Golf Team via the Booster Club organization https://tivygolf.boosterhub.com/store/7941/14804 or checks payable to Tivy Athletic Booster Club: Sammy Owens Memorial, 1100 Main Street, Kerrville, TX 78028.

The family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Juniper Village at Guadalupe Riverfront Assisted Living in Kerrville and New Century Hospice in Kerrville. Condolences may be sent at www.grimesfuneralchapels.com.

Tommie Jo Burch Regian passed peacefully in Kingsland, TX on the morning of December 30, 2023, comfortably under hospice care while surrounded by her immediate family. She was 81 years old.

Born in Rosebud, TX in 1942 to Thomas Andrew Burch and Alma Elizabeth Robbins Burch, Tommie was raised in Waco, TX where she attended elementary, junior high, and graduated from Waco High School.  While in Waco, Tommie met and married her true love of 59 years, Burnie Regian, and later came to be the loving mother to four boys, Robert, Michael, David, and Stephen, before moving to Baytown, TX in the late 1960’s.

Tommie became very active in the Baptist Church as a Sunday school teacher and the youth group, PTA, and school functions as well as local and state politics in her 20 years in Baytown. She was employed by the late Constable James Douglas until relocating with her family to the Portland, Oregon/Vancouver, Washington area in 1989 for employment. She fell in love with the Pacific Northwest and all it had to offer.

In 2003, Tommie retired early and for the next 10 years traveled across America full-time in a motorhome with her husband and son visiting 43 states, Mexico, and Canada. During her travels, she discovered and fell in love with Cody, Wyoming, where she spent the summer while traveling back to the Pacific Northwest for winter for about 8 years. Cody, Wyoming and the friends that became family there were a huge part of Tommie’s life.

Many years later, she and Burnie settled in Buchanan Dam, TX where they were surrounded by the dearest of friends.

Tommie was an avid country and western dancer who loved George Strait and held a special place in her heart for Garner State Park, the Frio River in Concan, TX, the mountains of Wyoming and Yellowstone, and the Oregon Coast. She was also an activist for women’s and human rights, and participated in protests locally, statewide, and in Washington, DC to make her voice heard and to make a difference in her life and the lives of others.

She made and loved so many friends across the USA in her travels. She was a friend to all and an adopted mother to so many. Her sense of humor and wittiness was unmatched and will forever be missed.

Tommie is preceded in death by her father, Thomas Andrew Burch, mother Alma Elizabeth Robbins Burch, brothers James Burch and Jerry Burch, and her beloved eldest son, Robert Lynn Regian. She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Burnie Regian of Buchanan Dam, TX; sons Michael Regian of Buchanan Dam, TX, David Regian of Highlands, TX, and Stephen Regian of Buchanan Dam, TX; daughters in law, Kelly Regian Butler of Baytown, TX and Heather Regian of Buchanan Dam, TX; sister Beth Burch of Poulson, MT; seven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

A very casual Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, April 20, 2024, at The Baytown Community Center Auditorium, 2407 Market Street, Baytown, TX 77520 at 1pm. All are welcomed.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Robert Regian Memorial Scholarship Fund at Lee College Baytown, TX online at  https://www.lee.edu/foundation/donate/named-scholarships/ or by calling the Lee College Foundation office at 281-425-6303

Rodger L. Felt, age 82, of Katy, Texas, passed away on March 4, 2024. He was born in San Diego, California on February 2, 1942 to Lawrence Willard Felt and Marion Olive Felt. Rodger had a career in oil and gas as an engineer for Shell and Abercrombie before eventually becoming self-employed when he opened Rodel Oil and Gas and Manufactured Pipehandlers. In his free time, he enjoyed writing poems, and cheering on his favorite teams including the Texas A&M Aggies, Dallas Cowboys, and Houston Astros.

Rodger was preceded in death by parents, Lawrence and Marion Felt, as well as his son, Bradley R. Felt. He is survived by his wife, Delind Felt; son, Gregory Felt; daughter, Deema Mata and husband, Jeremy Mata; sister, Sally Felt; niece, Sarah Felt; niece, Olivia Mendoza and husband, Kevin Mendoza; grandson, Tyler Felt; grandson, Aidan Felt and his fiance, Temple Trapp; grandson, Mason Mata; and great nephew, Elijah Lee Michaelson Mendoza.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Saturday, March 9, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Katy Funeral Home, located at 23350 Kingsland Blvd., Katy, TX 77494, to be followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM. A small family graveside service will occur on Monday, March 11, 2024 at Rodger’s final resting place in Waco, Texas.