Greta Helen Sparks

In Loving Memory of Greta Helen Sparks

Greta passed away on June 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, care, and a deep love for her family. Born to Clair and Hazel Shafer in Nebraska, she grew up alongside her siblings, Cleo, Ralph, Aneta, and Ona. She went to school in Benton Harbor, Michigan, and then to Wallace, Nebraska, where she graduated high school.

A lifelong learner with a heart for service, she attended and graduated from nursing school at Bryan Memorial Hospital in Lincoln, Nebraska.. It was during these years that she married her high school sweetheart, Glenn. In 1961, they moved to Phoenix, where she continued her nursing career, while raising a young family. After years in local hospitals, she found her true calling as a school nurse, caring for students at Sahuaro and Richard E. Miller.

She was known for her sharp practical sense. She was a savvy investor who loved following the stock market and was equally skilled at finding hidden treasures while thrift shopping. While she was famously frugal, her family knew her to be incredibly generous with those she loved. She was a "worrier" in the best sense, always focused on the health and well-being of her loved ones.

Her greatest pride was her family. She is survived by her three sons and their families: Greg and Julie (parents to Sophia, Glenn, and Suzannah); Jeff and Sue (parents to Jennifer, John, and Kathryn); and Doug and Casey (parents to Sarah). She was also the cherished great-grandmother to Luke, Freya, Payton, Ryder, Kamryn, Henry, and Wells.

She worked hard, saved, and gave everything to her family. She will be deeply missed.