Long time Gath community resident Joe Edward "Eddie" Sparkman died December 06, 2024 after a long battle with cancer. He was 76 years old. He was raised on a farm by parents Nettie Lillian Womack and E.T. Sparkman (both deceased). Along with brother John Sparkman of Smithville and sister Ann Romans (Bobby) of McMinnville who survive.

Attending Dibrell School, he was active in 4-H Club, FFA, and was an Eagle Scout. An Army Vietnam Veteran, he won the Purple Heart and other awards. He married Linda Killian, who survives, and together they had one son Brad Edward Sparkman (deceased) and one daughter Edrie Rochelle Sparkman Wann (Travis). The love of his life was his only grandson Trad Edward Sparkman Wann.

He was a member of the Tennessee Highway Patrol for 31 years. He was a member of Mt. Leo Church of Christ. He was also preceded in death by nephew Jace Sparkman and sister-in-law Rhonda Sparkman. He is survived by sister-in-law Freda Curtis of McMinnville, brothers-in-law Phillip Killian (Carol) of Morrison, Kent Kilian (Connie) of Sparta and Mark Killian of McMinnville, several nieces and nephews, special friend Mike Spicer and special granddaughter Keisha Beard.

Funeral services were conducted December 09, 2024, in the McMinnville Funeral Home Chapel. Klint Curtis and R.C. Christian officiated. Interment followed at Mt. View Cemetery. Military Grave Rites were bestowed by V.F.W. Post 5064 and American Legion Post 173.

Special thanks to Gentiva Hospice for all of their care and assistance.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Dibrell Memorial Museum.

Online condolences may be made at www.mcminnvillefuneralhome.com

McMinnville Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. 931-473-6606.