Arnold Wayne Sparks, age 75, of 3219 Douthat Road, Lot B8, Clifton Forge, Virginia went to his eternal home with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at his residence.

He was born February 10, 1949 in Clifton Forge, Virginia to the late Reverend William E. Sparks and Violet M. Mabry Sparks. Arnold was a lifelong firefighter, dedicating his life to serving the communities in which he lived. He started this lifelong love of service in Roanoke and continuing it in Alleghany County by joining first the Selma Fire Department and then ultimately the Sharon Fire Department. He served a total of 42 years, holding many positions in that time with the last position being sergeant at arms. Arnold was a great storyteller when it came to his friends, “Brothers”, “Sisters” and events of his time as a firefighter. He looked at many firefighters, law enforcement and rescue as family, some have already passed and some have not, all were important to him-most probably never realizing it. Out of Arnold’s 75 years, he enjoyed being a firefighter, however, equally important to him was the many nursing homes in Roanoke and Clifton Forge that he was Maintenance Supervisor of. He was a little grumpy sometimes, but loved helping people. In his spare time, he liked camping, fishing and hunting. Plus, he absolutely loved to eat- a good biscuit, deer stew, trout salad, coconut cake and strawberries in the snow were his absolute favorites. He was a devoted Christian and member of Midway Community Christian Church in Low Moor, Virginia

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann Overstreet Sparks in 2009.

He is survived by his significant other, Clara R. Caldwell; her daughters, Teresa Barrett (Vincent), and Jennifer Shaffer (John); grandchildren, Joshua Hepler, Taylor Tucker, and Bella Shaffer, who lived close and visited often; other grandchildren, and great grandchildren; his son, Josh Sparks; his daughter, Kaytlyn Classey and numerous step children, nieces and nephews; special friend, Mary Smith; and his firefighter friends, Aaron Simmons, Mike Simmons and “Little” Willie Simmons.

In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

The family suggests memorial tributes take the form of contributions to the Sharon Volunteer Fire Department, 3910 Longdale Furnace Rd, Clifton Forge, VA 24422.