James Merritt Sparks, 72, of Sullivan passed away Sunday June 20, 2021 in his residence. He was a equipment operator for Hoosier Energy at Merom. James was born April 4, 1949 in Linton to Gaylord and Mary E. (Merritt) Sparks. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Chrystal (Warnick) Sparks; daughters, Susan Gofourth (James) and Sara Moore (Margaret Karnes); sisters, Marge George, Nancy Ochoa, and Cathi Delp; brother, John sparks; grandchildren, Cara Gofourth, Cassie Moore, and Reggie Karnes and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Mary Jane Royalty and Eleanor Sparks and a brother, William Sparks. James was a member of First Christian Church in Sullivan, Sullivan County Salvation Army, KAIROS Prison Ministry, Celebrate Recovery, and Bloomington Archery Club. She was also a clergy volunteer at the Indiana State Prison in Carlisle and a volunteer at the nursing homes in Sullivan County. Visitation will be Thursday June 24, 2021 from 4:00 until 8:00 pm in First Christian Church Fellowship Hall in Sullivan. Samaritan Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers the family suggests that for those who desire, contributions may be made to the Sullivan County Salvation Army. Online condolences may be left at www.samaritanfunerals.com