Thomas “Tom” Ray Sparks Sr., 89, passed away Tuesday, June 19, 2012, at the Southeast Louisiana War Veterans Home in Reserve. He was a union steward and master mechanic at Bunge Grain for 18 years and veteran of World War II with the U.S. Coast Guard.

He was the son of the late Martha White and Harrison Sparks, father of Thomas Sparks Jr. (Debbra) of Reserve, brother of Marilyn Tittleton of Dallas and grandfather of Aaron and Emily Sparks, Ian Gibbs, Amber Whitten and Amanda Malley. He also leaves behind four great-grandchildren, Byron Billiot, who was considered another son, and nephew, Greg Sparks of Dallas.

Visitation and services were held Friday, June 22, 2012, at the Southeast Louisiana War Veterans Home. He will later be placed at sea by the U.S. Coast Guard.

The family extends a special thanks to the nurses, staff and administrators at the Veterans Home for their expressions of kindness and thoughtfulness.

Arrangements were under the direction of H.C. Alexander Funeral Home in Norco.

Friends and family are invited to send their condolences to www. hcalexanderfuneral home.com.