At Glance
‣ Former professional golfer and Golf Channel host, Stephanie Sparks, passed away at the age of 50. She was remembered for her advocacy for hospice care and support for breast cancer foundations.
‣ Sparks had a notable career in golf, being an All-American collegiate golfer at Duke, winning multiple amateur championships, and representing the U.S. in the 1994 Curtis Cup before chronic back issues ended her professional playing career.
‣ Throughout her career with the Golf Channel, particularly on the reality series ‘Big Break’, Sparks was celebrated for her empathy towards contestants and her dedication to the sport, earning the respect and friendship of colleagues and the golf community.
Broken heart 💔 today. RIP Stephanie Sparks … one of the kindest, sweetest, hardworking people. Always a smile. She earned her perfect professional place on @GolfChannel ‘s Big Break and our great respect, support and friendship inside that building. Prayers to her family. 🙏🏼
— Kraig Kann 🏔 (@kraigkann)
The world of golf mourns the loss of a beloved figure. Stephanie Sparks, a former professional and cherished Golf Channel host, has left us at the tender age of 50. It’s a sad day, indeed.
Mary Stephanie Sparks, as she was fully named, passed on April 13. Her departure marks the end of a life lived with passion, both on the green and off.
Her obituary, found on Kepner Funeral Homes’ website, paints a picture of a woman dedicated to making a difference. Over her last years, she became a vocal advocate for hospice care. But that’s not all.
Sparks also threw her support behind Libby’s Legacy Breast Cancer Foundation and the Barber Fund in Orlando. Her legacy? It’s one of compassion, extending far beyond the golf course.
She leaves behind a family who adored her: parents Robert and Janie, sister Susan, brother-in-law Scott, and their kids. Not to mention a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins. The void she leaves is immense.
Remember ‘Big Break’? That was Sparks alongside Tom Abbott, helping aspiring golfers chase their dreams. Abbott, reflecting on their time together, shared, “She knew what it was like for the contestants, and she wanted them to succeed.” It’s a testament to her spirit.
“Broken heart today. RIP Stephanie Sparks … one of the kindest, sweetest, hardworking people. Always a smile.” This tweet from Kraig Kann captures the essence of who Sparks was. A beacon of positivity in the competitive world of golf.
Her journey began in Wheeling, West Virginia. An All-American at Duke, her talent was undeniable. Despite injuries plaguing her career, she shone brightly, amassing victories and representing the U.S. in the 1994 Curtis Cup.
But her story isn’t just about triumphs on the field. Sparks also made her mark in ‘Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius’ and on Golf Channel, hosting ‘Golf With Style’ and ‘Playing Lessons With The Pros.’ Her versatility knew no bounds.
In her memory, donations can be directed to Valley Hospice. It’s a way to honor a life that, while cut short, was immensely impactful.
Golf has lost a true ambassador. Stephanie Sparks, your legacy will live on, both in the hearts of those who knew you and in the sport you loved so dearly. Rest in peace.
