Katherine D Sparks' Obituary
Katherine Devine (McPhillips) Sparks
Katey passed away in Trinity, FL, on April 19, 2026, following the progression of a terminal illness over the past two years. Katey was born in Portland, ME, to William and Mary (Feeney) McPhillips in 1942. Katey graduated from Brockton School of Nursing, became a registered nurse, and dedicated her life to her patients, for over fifty years. She worked in Boston, MA, Albuquerque, NM, Portland, ME. In addition, for the last 20+ years she worked in the emergency department and ambulatory surgical unit in Trinity, FL. Katey’s adventurous spirit took her to a nursing job in Saudi Arabia. On the plane to move there, Katey met her soon-to-be husband, Denis Sparks, who was also moving there to work for ARAMCO. They married on the Seychelles and took an extended leave to travel the world. Denis’ job also led to them living in Holland for a short time. Upon Denis’ retirement, they moved to Spain for several years. They were married for about 30 years. Along the way as Kate traveled for work and pleasure, she collected many lifelong friends.
Katey was pre-deceased by her husband, Denis Sparks, her parents, William and Mary McPhillips, her two brothers Jack and Jim McPhillips. She is survived by her sisters, Jane
McPhillips, Rita McPhillips and her nephew, Joe McPhillips and Joe’s wife, Kiera.
A celebration of her most colorful life will be held on Saturday, May 9th, 3:00-5:00pm, at the Heritage Lake community building, located at 9151 Heritage Lake Blvd, New Port Richey, FL 34655.
We would be most grateful if you can prepare to share your own stories of your times with Katey.
Donations in her honor may be made to the American Lung Association:
https://www.action.lung.org
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