Delvin Earl Sparks was born in Fort Worth, Texas on July 28, 1942 to Arveta and Jack Sparks. 

He played trumpet in the Big Purple Band and served as a room check while creating as much mischief as possible at Abilene Christian College where he met his Nila. He taught school at Trent, TX and Moriarity, NM before receiving his Masters Degree from Oklahoma State University in 1968. He retired from Texas Rehabilitation Commission in 1995. He then began his own business, Disability Associates of Central Texas, where he helped people with disabilities to receive their social security benefits. 

He was a kind and gentle son, brother, husband, father, uncle, business partner, shepherd, and grandad. He loved to garden, create and explore art, and work in his woodshop. He traveled to the border and to Colorado as much as possible, and was always looking for a fishing opportunity. He was an eccentric cook, from fajitas to brisket, and enjoyed a cookie with his morning coffee. He frequently teased and laughed with those he loved.  

The best part of Delvin was how he loved people. As fond as he was of his family and friends, he extended that love to the poor and to those who did not know God. He gave generously and frequently. Going on mission trips filled his heart and showed him the great love of God, which he passed on to his children. His time, his money, his grace, his health, his words were the ways he showed his faithfulness and thankfulness to God. He treasured his relationships with those here on earth, and held his relationship with God closest of all. He sang his hymns loudly and looked forward to Communion. His hope and his heart rest in “the One who can do immeasurably more than we can hope for and imagine.”