Jessie Lee Sparks, son of the late Jessie Richardson and Minnie Jewel Slay, was born in Albany, Georgia on September 1, 1945.

He received his formal education in the Dougherty County School System, including Monroe High School.

Jessie was united in holy matrimony to the love of his life, Sara L. Hughes.  Their union endured for 51years as they honored their vows to love and cherish each other.  He was a devoted husband and father who worked untiringly to provide for his family through his employment as a custodian with the school system.  No matter what the task, Jessie took great pride in his work and a job well done.

Simply a true joy to everyone around him, "Papa Jam" as he was endearing called, had a spirit of sunshine that could be felt by all who encountered him.   His love for family and friends was infinite.  He had a gigantic heart, was a friend you could always count on, and gave of himself freely—never asking anything in return.  In his leisure, he enjoyed music, traveling, technology and having fun.

On Monday, January 31, 2022, Jessie peacefully departed this earthly life at his residence.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Loretta Sparks.

Cherished memories will forever remain with his beloved wife, Sarah Lou Sparks; his children, Indica L. Sparks Thomas (Michael) and Melanie Porter; grandchildren, Zahawadee Ja'Shod Sparks-Johnson, Xennia D'cierra Jewel Johnson, Jeremiah Tinsley, Sr, and Shunyia Johnson; great grandchild, Jeremiah Tinsley, Jr.; sisters-in-law, Rosemary Duncan, Doris Toomer Hicks, and Esther Worthington (Fredrico); brothers-in-law, Morris Hughes, Jr. (Mildred), Johnny Hughes, and Jessie Lee Hughes; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.