Patricia Ann Sparks Cox

Patricia Sparks Cox, 81, of Hickory passed away on Friday, April 3, 2026 at Amorem Hospice of Burke County following a period of declining health.

Patricia was born December 11, 1944 in Mitchell County to the late Joseph L. Sparks and Ilene Buchanan Sparks. She was a dedicated member of Freedom Baptist Church in Spruce Pine, NC, and was known for her strong Christian faith. To her children and all who called her “momma,” she set the standard for what it meant to be a Godly person.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband Jimmy Melborn Cox; sister, Judy Haynes; infant sister, Jean Evelyn Sparks; and an infant grandson, Gregory Benjamin Gardner.

She is survived by her children, Kimberly Gardner Holliday, and Greg Gardner and wife Debi; grandchildren, Marc Plemons and wife Pam, JR Plemons, Samantha Holliday, Andy Holliday, Valerie Smith and husband Donald; and Emily Gardner; and great-grandchildren, Conner Plemons, Colton Plemons, Elaina Walker, Ryleigh Gardner, Greyson Holliday, and Corey Martin- who is proudly serving overseas in the United States Navy. Also surviving is her brother, Benny J. Sparks and wife Francis; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Woodlawn Memorial Garden in Hickory, with Rev. Marvin Wiley officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Amorem at www.amoremsupport.org

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory in Valdese is assisting the family.