Elizabeth Jane "Beth" Sparks

Elizabeth Jane Sparks, beloved wife, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed away on the fourth day of January, 2026.

Elizabeth—known lovingly as Beth—was born on August 1, 1958, to Arthur and Betty Jane Edmunds of Long Grove, Illinois. She grew up surrounded by family, alongside her older brothers, William and Edwin, and her younger sister, Neva. Close by were her cherished grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins.

Beth attended Kildeer Countryside School, where she performed in plays, loved to read, took long nature walks, and delighted in all the dogs, cats, kittens—and her pony, Amigo. She was a member of Long Grove Community Church during her youth.

In August of 1972, Beth moved with her family to Pueblo, Colorado. There, she excelled in high school and found joy in acting and choir. While attending Calvary Baptist Church, she met the love of her life and future husband, Gary Duane Sparks.

Beth and Gary shared a unique beginning together, with Beth assisting Gary in his magic performances. They were married in November of 1977 and soon began their life together in San Francisco, California. The couple spent many happy years there before moving to Sausalito, where they continued to build a life rich in love, faith, friendship, and adventure. Their years in California were filled with church involvement, games, movies, flowers, entertainment, travel, and treasured time with friends and family.

In 2011 Beth and Gary relocated to Las Vegas, Nevada, a place that quickly became a hub for joyful gatherings. Their home was often filled with visiting friends and family, laughter, and shared memories. Las Vegas also allowed them to share with the world their love of fantasy miniatures by opening Verko’s Vault museum.

Beth is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Gary, and by her many friends and family members, including her siblings Bill, Ed, and Neva; her sisters-in-law, Meg Edmunds, Marsha Edmunds, Carey Murphy, and Nancy LeBlanc; and brother-in-law, Dall Sparks. She is also fondly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, as well as cousins and dear friends Whitley, April, Dean, Martin, Christine, Jeff, Mike, and Martin. Her warmth, kindness, and radiant spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Graveside service, 1:30 p.m., Friday, January 23, 2026 at Roselawn Cemetery.