Reverend and Dear Monsignors and Fathers, Deacons and Subdeacons, Brothers, and Sisters;

I am sorry that I have more sad news to share with you today: Subdeacon Oliver Crosby Sparks III, 80, of Wilkes-Barre, passed away peacefully Friday, June 10, 2022.

Crosby was born in Sikeston, Missouri, moving to Wilkes-Barre at age 5. He graduated from GAR Memorial High School in 1959, lettering in football, wrestling and track and field. He was a District II wrestling champion, student council president and Gentleman Scholar Athlete Award winner. He earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 1958. After attending Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, he transferred to King's College. He graduated in 1964, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He began teaching biology later that year in New Castle, Delaware. In 1967, he returned home to Wilkes-Barre to teach biology and environmental sciences at GAR. Over the next 34 years, he taught, advised and coached thousands of students. He retired after the 2000-2001 school year, having spent 40 years at GAR as a student and teacher. He earned two Master of Science degrees. In 2006, he was ordained a subdeacon in our Maronite Church.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jacqueline; his son, Travis and his wife Jennifer, and their twin daughters. He is also survived by his brother and many other relatives.

His wake will be held at St. Anthony + St. George Church in Wilkes-Barre from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday. The Funeral Divine Liturgy will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, with the interment to follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton. Condolences may be sent by visiting Crosby's obituary at the following website: www.natandgawlas.com.

On behalf of Bishop Gregory and all of our Eparchy, I extend sincere condolences to Jacqueline, and to all of Crosby’s family and friends. We also offer our sympathy to Father Adib and all of the parishioners of St. Anthony + St. George Church. May Crosby rest in peace!

Sincerely yours in Christ,
Chorbishop Michael G. Thomas,
Vicar General