Judith (Sparkman) Travirca

Judith Travirca, 75 of Kiln, came to the end of her earthly journey Saturday evening, January 7th 2023, at Canon Hospice in Gulfport, MS. She battled cancer for five years and is now enjoying a well-earned rest. Judith was born on October 21, 1947 in Franklin, TN., one of three children to Richard and Christine (O'Bryant) Sparkman. She grew up in Franklin and loved the outdoors from the start. Her family raised TN Walking Horses, so as you might imagine, Judy was a horse girl. More than that, she was one of those who literally would do whatever she set her mind to. She grew up in the Church of Christ and attended schools there in Franklin, graduating from Franklin HS in the mid 60s. The family enjoyed the outdoors as well, travelling, waterskiing in the summer months, and so much more. Following high school, Judy went on to college in the Memphis area, obtaining a Bachelors Degree in English. After graduation, she embarked on a backpack tour of Europe for the summer. When Judy returned home, she was off to the Lake Tahoe area where she entered the gaming industry as a dealer, or croupier as she would quickly correct you. Judith was unique, as she was left handed, and rapidly became known as one of the top croupiers around. When she wasn't dealing cards, Judith spent a lot of time on the slopes in the area. Unsurprisingly, she quickly became an accomplished skier and avid hiker. She would later meet Chester while working as a CSR for America West Airlines in Tucson, AZ. They began a relationship, were married in 1991, and eventually made their home in Kiln, MS, where his family has lived for five generations. She is remembered as a kind, spirited woman who was warm and friendly to everyone she ever met. Judith maintained life-long friendships with many she grew up and worked with through the years. For her and Chester, their animals were their children, raising many Rodesian Ridgebacks, along with several "hinds 57s" rescued through the years. Plus, they kept the birds and other wildlife fed on their property through the years as well. When she wasn't working, she enjoyed running, competing in several competitions over the years. When there wasn't a race to run, Judith enjoyed boating with Chester, or going to local shows or out to eat. An exceptional woman by every account, Judith was a loving wife and rock to Chester for over 35 years. She will be forever missed by all whose life she touched. Judith was preceded by her parents, Richard and Christine Sparkman; her brother-in-law Bobby Morel, and several of her four-pawed kids through the years. Left to cherish her memories are: her devoted husband, Chester; her sister Patsy Morel and her brother, Hanes Sparkman, both of the Franklin, TN area, along with several nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and neighbors through the years. Judith loved, and was loved by so many, including beloved girlfriends who were as close as family and lifelong companions: Diana (Tic) Laws, Terri "T" Tucker, Martha Taylor, Jan Grasmoen, Sylvia Aldoco, and last but certainly not least, Mary Ann Walker, who's help through her illness at home provided much comfort to both Judy and Chester. Her final wishes were to be cremated, which the family is honoring. A private memorial will be held at the Travirca home in the Kiln. At some point, she will be returned to one of her favorite places, Mt. Tallac in Lake Tahoe, and finally interred in the family plot in Kiln. In lieu of any floral arrangements, the family requests donations be made in Judy's honor, to The Bridge School, which her and Chester supported through the years. Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the deceased.last name family in their time of need and asks that you remember them in your thoughts and prayers through the days ahead.

The Bridge School
545 Eucalyptus Avenue, Hillsborough CA 94010-6404
Tel: 1-650-696-7295
Email: vcasella@bridgeschool.org
Web: https://secure.bridgeschool.org/donate