Rita Sparks

Rita Sparks, 91, of Galesburg, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 28, 2024 at Hathaway Hills Assisted Living in Greenville. Rita was born February 26, 1933 in Philadelphia, Mississippi, the daughter of Boss and Esther (Thomas) Lang. She was united in marriage to William Sparks who preceded her in death in 1999. Rita was employed as a cook for the Student Center at Western Michigan University for 25 years, retiring in 1995. She enjoyed gardening and could be found mowing her lawn twice a week whether it needed it or not well into her later years. She also enjoyed cooking and crocheting. Most of all, Rita loved her family. She was a big part of the lives of her children and grandchildren, and no one ever left her house hungry, she loved making sure everyone was well fed.

Rita is survived by her daughter, Judy (Keith) Zerba; three grandchildren, Gary (Michelle) Kamrowski, Trisha (Jeremiah) Fick and Robert (Katie) Gates; 12 great grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren and one on the way; a sister, Margie Smith; and two nieces that were like her daughters, Carrie Blades and Ruby Smith; along with many other extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a son, Thomas Gentry, two daughters, Becky Gentry, who died in infancy, and Dorothy Gates, and two grandsons, Michael and David Gates.

Rita will be laid to rest with her husband at Fort Custer National Cemetery at 1:00 PM on Friday, January 10, 2025, with Pastor Jeff McNally officiating the committal service. Please arrive at the assembly area of the cemetery 15 minutes prior. Memorial contributions may be directed to CorsoCare Hospice.