Obituary of Ina Jo Sparks

Ina Jo Johnson Sparks joined her Lord on August 22, 2021, after a short illness. Ina Jo was an Auburndale girl growing up, graduating as a Bloodhound, Class of 1951, with her future husband of 59 years, Don. They traveled the world together as the U.S. Marine Corps directed with their daughters Kathleen, (Patrick) and Sharon (Ron). Ina was an avid gardener and filled the garden of every home she lived with gorgeous flowers, plants, and trees so that others who followed her could enjoy their beauty. As president of the Lakeland Garden Club, she was responsible for developing the butterfly garden at the Lakeland Cancer Center. Ina Jo’s greatest joy was her family and she was most happy cooking and baking for us all. No one ever left her home hungry or empty-handed. She loved to share her many talents, and often played the piano and sang hymns and tunes from her younger days, and was a member of the Sweet Adelines. Ina Jo was predeceased by her wonderful parents, Virginia and Joe Johnson and dear brother, Julian. She shared a special bond with her beloved sister, Florence Shelton, and was the feisty fun grandmother to Sarah, Matthew Joseph, and Gregory, and great grandmother to Lilli, Cayce Jo, and Kayden. She was Aunt Jo to multiple nieces and nephews who recall her fancy cakes, teaching them to dance the Hawaiian hula, dressing up as Santa Claus, hiding hundreds of Easter eggs, and always ready with a good story and better hug. She and her great friend and companion, Mary Patterson, had a long-standing weekly soul food cooking competition. Ina Jo’s generous heart and deep love was felt by all who were fortunate to share her life. She will be in our hearts forever and we are deeply blessed for her love.

A private memorial service will be held for her immediate family at a later time. Please consider remembering Ina with a donation to your charity of choice.