Rodrick Keirre’ Sparks was born on November 29, 1991, in Texas City, Texas, at Mainland Center Hospital, to Helen and Roger Sparks. From the very beginning, Rodrick brought joy, laughter, and light to everyone he met.

     He matriculated through Texas City ISD, attending Roosevelt-Wilson Elementary, Levi Fry Intermediate, and Blocker Middle School, before graduating from Texas City High School with the Class of 2010. His passion for sports began early — basketball was his first love, and football quickly followed.

     Rodrick was well known throughout Texas City. Between the connections made by his loving parents, his brother Ryan, and his own outgoing spirit, Rodrick never met a stranger. His warm smile, quick wit, and genuine heart made him a friend to many.

     After high school, Rodrick continued his education and athletic journey at Texas Lutheran University, where he played a pivotal role in helping turn the football program around. He graduated from TLU in December 2014, earning his degree and leaving behind a legacy of teamwork and leadership.

     Following graduation, Rodrick entered the workforce with determination and purpose. He worked faithfully at Tyson Foods for several years before joining H-E-B, where his strong work ethic and cheerful personality continued to shine.

     Rodrick was raised in the church, strengthened by the prayers of his two devoted grandmothers, Mattie Lee Turner and Stella Mae Sparks. He attended Barber’s Chapel and Straightway Baptist Church, where he learned that prayer was truly a necessity for life.

     Rodrick loved people deeply and cherished his family above all else. He believed in hard work, faith, and perseverance — but he also believed that life was meant to be enjoyed. His laughter, kindness, and sense of humor will live forever in the hearts of those who knew him.

     Rodrick will be lovingly remembered by his parents, Helen and Roger Sparks; his daughter, Riley Sparks (Jade Jones); his brother, Ryan Sparks; his nephew, Brydrick Scott;  his cousin/brother, Brandon Jolly; his “special friends and family”, Alexander and Alexis Tirado (Carmen Cruz); Aunts Lorraine and Wanda Sparks; and a host of aunties, uncles, cousins, and friends — including many “brothers” from Texas City High School and Texas Lutheran University.

     He will also be reunited in glory with his great-grandparents, Clara and Dreabon Stoker, Roger Joseph Sr. and LouElla (Mama Lou), and Will and Clara Sparks; his grandparents, Columbus Lewis (J.C.) and Mattie Lee (Linda) Turner, Walter and Helen Benford, and Hughe Franklin and Stella Mae Sparks; and his uncle, Hughe Franklin Sparks Jr. (Uncle Buster).

     Though his earthly journey has ended, Rodrick’s spirit continues to live through every life he touched. His memory will forever remain a source of strength, joy, and love to all who knew him.