Billy Joe Sparkman, 74, of China Spring passed away November 3,2012. Memorial services will be held at 10:30 AM Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2012, at the China Spring First United Methodist Church with Pastors Jane Woodward and J.T. Rabon officiating under the direction of Foss Funeral Home Cremation Services. Billy Joe was born October 2, 1938, to Robert Lee and Stella Moore Sparkman in Whitney, Texas. He was a 1958 graduate of China Spring High School. He served in the US Army stationed in Germany. He married, Priscilla Heine, his partner of 51 years, on June 24, 1961. Together they have two children, Jay and Michele. He retired from Lone Star Gas Co. after 30 years. He was an avid out doorsman, hunting, fishing and camping any chance he could. The last ten years he enjoyed spending time with his beloved grandson, Jake. His family and friends were very important to him. He will be remembered for his friendly personality and quick wit. He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, six brothers, and his father-in-law, Marvin Heine. Survivors include his wife; Priscilla, daughter; Michele Sparkman of Clifton, son; Jay and wife, Kelly Sparkman, of Clifton, and grandson; Jake Sparkman, of Clifton. Mother-in-law; Faye Heine of China Spring, and sister-in-law; Katie Powell of China Spring, sister; Annette and husband, Albert Hollingworth, of Lacey Lakeview, brother; Odell and wife, Nora, of Waco. Many nieces and nephews, and a host of friends and the O.F.C. of Shipley's. We wish to thank the Waco VA, the Temple VA Hospital and Providence Hospice for their wonderful care and concern. The family requests memorials may be made to China Spring United Methodist Church, American Cancer Society, or your favorite charity.