Katie Mae Sparkman Kirby
Danville Katie Mae Sparkman Kirby, a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and treasured “Granny,” passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, January 15th, 2025, at the age of 88.
Born on October 2nd, 1936, in Morgan County, Alabama, Katie was the beloved daughter of Johnny and Evie Franklin, who preceded her in death. She attended Slip-Up School and later Danville High School. A lifelong learner with remarkable determination, Katie returned to her studies at the age of 50 and earned her GED from Calhoun Community College, an achievement she held with immense pride.
Katie was a woman of steadfast faith and lived a life devoted to the Lord. Her daily commitment to prayer and Bible study was the cornerstone of her life, shaping her into the shining example of a virtuous woman described in the Book of Proverbs. A true prayer warrior, Katie inspired her family and all who knew her to cultivate a deep and personal relationship with God.
Her greatest passion was her family. Katie’s life mission was to instill a love for the Lord in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren. She prayed fervently for each one of them, guiding them with wisdom, compassion, and encouragement. Her deepest hope was that her family would continue to follow God’s path and one day they would all be reunited in heaven. In her own words, Katie requested, “please keep loving each other,” which truly represented her heart for her family.
For over 60 years, Katie was a faithful member of Walden Chapel Baptist Church in Danville, where she found joy in serving her community and sharing her unwaver-ing faith. Her strength, grace, and kindness touched countless lives, and she will be remembered as the heart and foundation of her family.
Katie is survived by her sons, Roy Glyndon Sparkman (Loronda) and Junior Kirby (Joanie); her daughters, Laura Sparkman Johnson (Jeremiah) and Lavonda Sparkman Belcher (Jonathan); and her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren who were her greatest source of pride and joy. Her legacy of love, faith, and prayer will continue to live on in their hearts.
Katie Mae Sparkman Kirby lived a life defined by devotion-to her family, her faith, and her community. She leaves behind a legacy of grace, compassion, and an unshakable foundation in the Lord. Though she will be deeply missed, her light will shine forever in the lives of those she touched.
Funeral service will be held on Sunday, January 19th, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at Peck Funeral Home in Hartselle. Visitation will take place prior to the service, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. The service will be officiated by Brother Keith Smith and Brother Ron Manly. Interment will follow at Johnson Chapel Cemetery in Danville.
