Raymond John Sparks

(Raymond) John Sparks, beloved husband, brother and father, rode off into the sunset, Saturday, August 2, 2025. Born October 25, 1953 in Marietta, Ohio to parents Donald and Marie Sparks, John spent many years traveling to many states while his father worked as a heavy equipment operator. John is preceded in death by his parents and brother Donald Sparks.

John enjoyed a life-long journey as a cowboy in Texas and Colorado and most recently at his ranch in Herod, Illinois. He worked with internationally recognized horse trainer John Lyons for several years. Later, he joined the Chicago Cook County Police Department's mounted police division where he served as the Field Training Officer for both horses and officers patrolling Cook County forests and overseeing Chicago City parade control.

John met his wife, Roberta at a horse symposium in 1989 where they began their love journey for 35 years. He traveled with his partner across the country enjoying trail riding and camping. His biggest joys in life were riding side by side with his wife, owning his horses and his Rottweilers and an occasional drink around a campfire with good friends.

Survivors include his wife, Roberta Sparks, brothers, Ronald, Samuel, Thomas, James Sparks and sister Judy Jacobson and two children from a previous marriage, John and Stephanie Sparks Bradbury.

John will be remembered by many for his infectious laughter, his willingness to help others and his quest to know that the Lord is his Savior.

Ministry of Comfort Lovingly Entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.