Billie Joyce Sparlin

Billie Joyce Sparlin, lovingly known as Joyce, went home to be with the Lord on August 25, 2025, at the age of 84. She passed peacefully in her home after a decades-long battle with breast cancer, showing the same courage, determination, and grace that defined her life.

Born on March 23, 1941 to Rodger and Mildred Ake, Joyce lived a life filled with love, resilience, and devotion. She had two great loves—her family and her work—and she poured her heart fiercely into both. A true pioneer for women in the workplace, Joyce began her career as a secretary and, through her hard work and determination, rose to become Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Kings County Truck Lines and later Ruan. She dedicated 41 years of her life to her career, often joking that working was her “hobby.” Even in her later years, she would say she couldn’t leave this world yet because her work wasn’t finished.

Joyce’s hardworking spirit was rooted in her deep love for her family and her desire to leave behind a legacy of strength and perseverance. Beyond her career, her faith became an anchor in her life. She attended Harvest Church in Arroyo Grande, CA and, in her later years, found joy in leading two of her family members to the Lord before their passing.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gary Sparlin; her brother Frank Ake, beloved sister and brother-in-law, Bonnie and David Winnett; and her nephew, Lance Winnett. She is survived by her children, Brent Sparlin (Tina) and Sloan Elmore (Danny); her grandchildren, Brandon Elmore (Krista), Christina Bustamante (Jason), Brooke Harvey (Drew), and Morgan Benson (Johnathan); and her seven great-grandchildren, Tatum, Hope, Eden, Noah, Charlotte, Bastion, and Cindle, who adored their wonderful “Gigi.”

To her family, Joyce was more than a mother and grandmother—she was a guiding light, a steady hand, and an endless source of love. She will be remembered for her laughter, her faith, her work ethic, and the way she inspired those around her to live fully and love deeply.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the First Church of God in Tulare, CA. All who knew and loved Joyce are welcome to join her family in honoring this amazing woman’s life. Lunch will be provided following the service.

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