Mr. James Clayton Sparks “Jim” age 64 of Spindale, NC passed away Friday January 17, 2014 at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center in Spartanburg, SC following a long illness. A native of Rutherford County Jim was a graduate of R.S. Central High School, attended Western Carolina and Appalachian State and served in the National Guard. Jim was a co-owner of Sparkie’s Cadillac-Olds, manager of Spark’s Family, LLC and was most recently involved in commercial real estate working with Source Properties. Left to cherish his memories are his wife Phyllis H. Sparks of the home, stepson Damon Ammons and his wife Jennifer of Spartanburg, SC; two grandsons – Coleman and William Ammons; one brother Ray Sparks of Columbus, NC; one sister Linda S. Haire of Spindale, NC; three nephews – Allen Sparks and wife Gwen of Columbia, SC; Kyle Sparks and wife Tina of Fort Mill, SC and Tom Haire and wife Dana of Rutherfordton, NC. Jim is also survived by a number of other family members and numerous friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Clayton “Bud” Sparks and Sue Bullard Sparks. A celebration of life will be held 2 PM Wednesday January 22, 2014 at Crowe’s Funeral Chapel 118 US Hwy 74A Rutherfordton, NC 28139 with Dr. Larry Gregg officiating. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hospice of Rutherford County P.O. Box 336 Forest City, NC 28043.