Kaci Jo Sparkman, age 30.

If you're reading this, then you are aware I have passed away. I had been told it would happen one day but it's not something I wanted to hear. I never liked it when I didn't get my say.

I was born June 21, 1990, and presented to my parents, Lisa and Greg Sparkman and older brother, Garrett. He was the first child which made me the second child. Forever number 2.

I remember my dad loved me the most. This was common knowledge. He loved me so much because I barrel raced, rode horses and bulls even when he told not to do so and he loved this about me. I won many rodeo buckles I wore with pride because I was good at the things I was told not to do. I was always full of sass, part of my charm.

While I'm discussing livestock, it's probably a good time to mend fences. My mom and Garrett, the number one son, worked tirelessly to endure my ability to boss and command my world. It is apparent to me, now in hindsight, my boss lady approach to my world really just amounted to full-on tantrums. They deserve my most sincere apologies and gratitude. They are truly saints.

I gave back to our world an amazing handsome wise son Colter and a beautiful sassy daughter Rees. My sass is now apparently her legacy. They are both at the age where they will need our family's love and guidance. It takes a village. I have such an amazing family and so many friends who loved me. How much more blessed could I have been?

I was born, I blinked and it was over. It has been said the content of a life is the dash between your birth date and your death. I had only a short dash but filled it to the brim while I was here.

Life is short. Break the rules, forgive quickly, kiss slowly, love truly, laugh uncontrollably, never forget anyone who made you smile. Remember everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about so always be kind.

When the mood hits you, you can look for me in a sunset over the ocean, a freshly plowed field or wherever you feel love. Naturally, that will comfort some while antagonizing others, but if you knew me, that was one of the things I did best.

Please don't cry because I'm gone, instead be happy I was here (OK a little crying won't hurt since you are reading my obituary after all). Today, I am at home with our Lord, happy, whole and dancing with those who went before me.

Love you forever, Kaci Jo

Survivors include loving mother Lisa Sparkman of Gordonville; beloved son, Colter Eck and daughter, Rees Flannery, both of Gordonville; brother, Garrett Sparkman of Cape Girardeau; grandmother, Lucille Sams "Pappy Lucille;" special grandfather, Dean Martin; nieces, Ella and Vera Grace Sparkman; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friend to many.

Visitation will be from 2 to 6 p.m. on Friday at the Cape County Cowboy Church in Oak Ridge.

Funeral services will follow at 6 p.m. at the church with Pastor Jim Matthews officiating. Burial will take place at Cape County Memorial Park Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are appreciated to the Children Colter Eck and Rees Flannery at the Montgomery Bank.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home Mount Auburn is in charge of arrangements.

Online Condolences can be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.