Wilma Nettie Sparks

In Loving Memory of Wilma Nettie Sparks, It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, friend and matriarch, Wilma, who left us peacefully at the age of 84.

A retired nurse, Wilma dedicated her life to caring for others with compassion, kindness, and unwavering strength. Her nurturing spirit and tireless dedication touched the lives of countless patients and colleagues alike. A true family woman, she was the head and heart of our family-our guiding light, our source of love, and our greatest supporter. Her independence was a testament to her resilience and spitfire nature. She faced life's challenges head-on with a smile and a great sense of humor that could brighten any room.

Her love for her family knew no bounds, and she cherished every moment spent with those she loved. Her legacy of strength, humor, and love will forever remain in our hearts. We are grateful for her life and the beautiful memories she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Wilma was preceded in death by her parents, Claude and Mary (Plummer) Hughes; brothers, Fred, Harlan, Perk, John, Cliff, Carl Dean, and Tom Hughes; sister, Lorena Hughes; grandsons, Clyde Nelson Tharp Jr. and Noah Matthew Vess; and son-in-law, Clyde Nelson Tharp Sr.

She is survived by her children, Tina Tharp, Rebecca "Becky" (Greg) Wargo, and Herbert John Leeper; grandchildren, Carissa, Michelle (Sean), Lisa (Brandon), Jesse, September (Brad), MaKenna, Tyler, Garrett, Audrey, Krista (Brandon), Josh (Madison), Jacob, Alex (Jolie), Andrew, Katie, and Ty (Samantha); 29 great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; as well as numerous other family members and friends.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2025 from 1-3pm at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4104 Needmore Road, Dayton, Ohio 45424. A funeral service will begin at 3pm also at the funeral home. A graveside service will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025 at 10am at Willow View Cemetery.

Rest in peace, Mom. You were our hero, our confidant, and our greatest blessing.

To share a memory of Wilma or to leave a special message for her family, please sign the online guestbook provided.