Ray Sparks

Ray Arthur Sparks was born on July 20, 1929, in Clarkston, Utah, to Ray and Donna Mendenhall Sparks. He passed away November 24, 2024 at the age of 95 after a life filled with love, service, and dedication. Ray Arthur was known for his kind, caring nature, always quietly helping others in need along the way.

As the eldest child, Ray Arthur learned responsibility early in life, working hard on the farm. He served in the Central States Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and later served in Washington D.C with the United States Army. After graduating from the Agricultural College of Utah (Utah State University) with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education, Ray Arthur continued his studies with a Master's Degree in Educational Administration at California State University, Los Angeles.

Ray Arthur fell in love and married IvaLue Godfrey in the Logan Temple. Soon after they established their home in California and raised a family of five. Ray Arthur excelled as a well-loved teacher and principal, building community with a diverse population. As an active member of his community and a natural leader, Ray Arthur served as Elders Quorum President and Bishop, dedicating many, many hours in service and shouldering the burdens of life with others.

After their kids were grown, Ray Arthur and IvaLue served together in the Bristol, England Mission and then continued their lifetime of service by assisting in the MTC, Bishop's Storehouse, and Mount Timpanogos Temple. They also enjoyed traveling to Austria, Italy, Jerusalem, Egypt, Mexico, Alaska and most US States with some Caribbean cruising as well. Ray Arthur loved to garden and was happiest when digging weeds and sharing his harvest with everyone. Most notably, he showed unwavering dedication in caring for his wife IvaLue during several long illnesses. His selfless devotion for her in those difficult times was exceptional and truly inspiring.

Ray Arthur is survived by his children: Paul Ray Sparks, LueAnn Gunnell (Marty), Julie Sparks Loveridge, Donna Lynn Raby and Larry Sparks (Stefanie), 18 wonderful grandchildren, and 51 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife IvaLue and a son-in-law, Eugene Loveridge.

Ray's legacy of service, love, and dedication will be celebrated at his funeral service, to be held at Highland 1st Ward, 9621 North, 6050 West, Highland, Utah on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 10:00 am. There will be a public viewing on Friday December 6th from 6:00 until 8:00 pm at Anderson and Sons Lone Peak Chapel at 6141 Timpanogos Highway in Highland, Utah. Following the funeral service, Ray Arthur will be buried at the cemetery in Clarkston, Utah.

Please click on the link below to watch Ray's service via live stream:

https://youtube.com/live/7nSVPgmfD-c?feature=share