Colon Sparkman

Colon L. Sparkman, 79, of Elizabethtown went to meet his Lord and Savior Sunday, August 24 surrounded by his loved ones. He was the son of the late Clara Rogers of Charlotte. Colon was born on October 18, 1928.

Colon served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. He retired from the North Carolina Department of Corrections after 41 years, serving the last 25 years as Superintendent. Colon was a loyal member of Wesley's Chapel United Methodist Church, the N.C. Law Enforcement Association and the Elizabethtown Kiwanis Club.

To cherish his memory, he leaves behind his loving wife of 55 years, Christine Sparkman. Other survivors are, a son, Eddie, a daughter, Sherry Hester and husband Norgie, a granddaughter, Christie Nye, two grandsons, Scott Hinson and wife Nicole, Ray Sparkman and wife Jessica, great grandchildren Charlotte and Hailee Nye and Collin Hinson.

Other survivors are a niece and special caregiver Barbara Irwin, along with her husband Jack, both of Black Mountain, Susan Sparkman, daughter-in-law and Cindy Hester, a treasured family friend and co-worker.

He also leaves behind brothers, Earl Rogers and wife Sue, Joe Rogers and wife Vicky, and S.L. Rogers. Sisters left behind are Ruth Plummer and husband Donald, Jackie Tucker and Louise Tate.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, August 26, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Bladen Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held Wednesday, August 27, 11 A.M. at Wesley's Chapel United Methodist Church with Rev. Rusty Willis officiating, along with Rev. Tommy Rogers, Mr. Sparkman's nephew, and grandson Scott Hinson assisting. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

A special thanks to all the many treasured friends that are left behind. The kindness and generosity that has been shown to the family will never be forgotten. May God greatly bless you and your families.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Bladen We Care, POBox 1569, Elizabethtown, N.C. 28337 or Liberty Hospice, 2334 S. 41st St., Wilmington, N.C. 28403.